Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood has confirmed that a 28-year-old white British man arrested on suspicion of Ann Widdecombe's murder was not known to the Prevent programme. Counter-terrorism police are now leading the investigation into the death of the veteran politician, who was found dead at her home in Haytor on Dartmoor on Thursday.
Investigation Update
Laurence Taylor, head of UK counter-terrorism policing, stated that new information and evidence emerged during the police investigation. The suspect, initially arrested on Saturday on suspicion of murder, has been rearrested on suspicion of the commission, preparation or instigation of acts of terrorism.
Taylor said: "Building on the progress made by our colleagues in Devon and Cornwall Police, we now have new information and evidence that means Counter Terrorism Policing is now leading the investigation. We are pursuing multiple lines of enquiry to establish the motivation for this attack."
Government Response
Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood announced on X that she would update the House of Commons. She said: "The police are pursuing multiple lines of enquiry to establish the motivation for this attack. I will be updating the House further this afternoon. My thoughts today remain with Ann's family and friends, and all those who loved her."
Background
Ann Widdecombe, 78, a former Conservative minister and later Reform UK spokeswoman, was found dead at her home at approximately 11:40 am on Thursday after sustaining serious injuries. The investigation is ongoing, and police are appealing for information.
Anyone with information, images, or footage can report via the Major Incident Public Portal at https://mipp.police.uk/operation/50DC26S51-PO1 or contact Devon and Cornwall Police on 101. To remain anonymous, contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555111 or online.
