Ann Widdecombe murder probe shifts to terror police after fresh evidence

London,UPDATED: Jul 13, 2026 18:34 IST

Britain's counter-terrorism police have taken over the investigation into the murder of former Conservative minister and outspoken far-right politician Ann Widdecombe after what officials said was "new information and evidence" in the case. A 28-year-old white British man from Rotherham, South Yorkshire, who was arrested on suspicion of murder on Saturday, has now been re-arrested on terrorism-related charges.

Widdecombe, 78, was found dead at her home in south-west England last Thursday. Police believe she was attacked a day earlier in the small village of Haytor Vale at Dartmoor in Devon. Prime Minister Keir Starmer led condemnation over the "really shocking news", which drew reactions from across the political spectrum.

Counter Terrorism Policing South East said that "new information and evidence have come to light during what has been a dynamic and complex investigation" and, as a result, it is now leading the case. "The man in custody has since been re-arrested on suspicion of commission, preparation or instigation of acts of terrorism," it said.

Shabana Mahmood said on social media that "new information and evidence" had emerged, leading to the counter-terrorism unit taking charge of the investigation. "The police are pursuing multiple lines of enquiry to establish the motivation for this attack," she said, adding that she would make a statement in Parliament with further details.

Following initial inquiries, Devon and Cornwall Police said Widdecombe had suffered "serious injuries". Over the weekend, the force had said there was "nothing to suggest" the murder was "politically motivated". Assistant Chief Constable Matt Longman said officers remained "open-minded" about a possible motive and that there was not thought to be any "threat to the wider public".

"We are aware of online and public speculation, particularly with regard to motive. Again, I urge people not to share or engage with that speculation. It's unhelpful," Longman had said.

An outspoken Brexiteer, Widdecombe joined the Brexit Party to campaign for Britain's exit from the European Union. After serving for several years as an MP and later stepping back from frontline politics, she became a prominent reality TV personality. In 2023, she joined Nigel Farage-led Reform UK and served for a period as the party's immigration and justice spokesperson.

Farage, who visited Dartmoor over the weekend to pay his respects, described Widdecombe as a "remarkable individual" and "the fiercest defender of free speech". Opposition Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch said the party's former MP was a "very fun and feisty woman" and that she was "stunned" when news of the murder emerged.

The investigation into Widdecombe's death has now moved to Britain's counter-terrorism police after fresh evidence emerged, with the suspect facing terrorism-related allegations even as police continue to examine the motive behind the attack.

With PTI Inputs

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