Counter terrorism detectives are now leading the probe into the death of Ann Widdecombe after new evidence emerged. The former Conservative minister, 78, was found dead on the floor of her remote Dartmoor bungalow on Thursday after concern was raised when she failed to join a scheduled interview on a show she was a regular on.
Arrest and Re-Arrest
A 28-year-old white British man from Rotherham, South Yorkshire, was arrested at a terraced house on Saturday evening and taken into custody on suspicion of murder. He has since been re-arrested on suspicion of commission, preparation or instigation of acts of terrorism.
Police Statement
Counter Terrorism Policing confirmed it is now leading the investigation. Specialist officers from across the CTP network have been working alongside Devon and Cornwall Police since a murder investigation was launched last week. The man in custody has been re-arrested as new information and evidence came to light during what has been described as a dynamic and complex investigation.
Background
Miss Widdecombe, a former Tory minister and regular panelist on television shows, was found deceased at her home in Haytor, Devon, after the ambulance service was called at around 11:40am on Thursday 9 July. She had sustained serious injuries. The investigation was initially thought to have no political or terrorist link, but the U-turn follows new evidence.
Official Response
Shabana Mahmood MP stated on social media: 'Following new information and evidence, they are now leading on the investigation into the horrific murder of Ann Widdecombe. The police are pursuing multiple lines of enquiry to establish the motivation for this.'
