Counter-terrorism police have assumed control of the investigation into Ann Widdecombe's death, following the emergence of "new information and evidence", Counter Terrorism Policing South East has confirmed.
The former Conservative minister, who later became a Reform UK spokeswoman, was discovered deceased at her Haytor residence on Dartmoor at approximately 11.40am on Thursday following severe injuries.
Counter-terrorism officers have re-detained the 28-year-old white British man on suspicion of the commission, preparation or instigation of acts of terrorism and are now spearheading the inquiry into her death.
New Evidence Leads to Terror Probe
They stated that fresh information and evidence had emerged throughout the investigation. Laurence Taylor, Head of National Counter Terrorism Policing, 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. Our priority is progressing this investigation quickly, with all the capabilities we have available to us. If anyone has any information, please share it with the police."
A 28-year-old white British man from Rotherham, South Yorkshire, was initially arrested on suspicion of murder on Saturday 11 July. He has since been re-arrested on suspicion of commission, preparation or instigation of acts of terrorism, Counter Terrorism Policing South East (CTPSE) has confirmed.
Official Statement from Counter Terrorism Policing
In an official statement, CTP said: "Counter Terrorism Policing can confirm it is now leading the investigation into the death of Ann Widdecombe. Specialist officers from across the CTP network have been working alongside colleagues in Devon and Cornwall Police since a murder investigation was launched last week.
"Officers were called to Miss Widdecombe's home at Haytor, Devon, by the ambulance service at around 11.40am on Thursday 9 July. Sadly, 78-year-old Miss Widdecombe was located deceased within the property. She had sustained serious injuries.
"New information and evidence has come to light during what has been a dynamic and complex investigation and as a result, Counter Terrorism Policing South East (CTPSE) is now leading the investigation. The man in custody has since been re-arrested on suspicion of commission, preparation or instigation of acts of terrorism.
"CTPSE will continue to work closely with colleagues from the Devon and Cornwall Police Major Crime Investigation Team and across the Counter Terrorism Policing network in an effort to establish the full circumstances of the incident which led to this murder investigation."
Ongoing Investigation and Public Appeal
Taylor added: "We would like to thank local communities, the wider public and the media for their ongoing support and patience, and would ask them to continue to support us in the next stage of the investigation."
The development follows the initial murder investigation launched by Devon and Cornwall Police last week. Officers are now pursuing multiple lines of enquiry to establish the motivation for the attack, with all available capabilities being deployed.
