Detectives with Devon and Cornwall Police have until Monday evening to question a 28-year-old man arrested on suspicion of the murder of former MP Ann Widdecombe and a terrorism offence. Armed police attended the suspect's home in Rotherham, South Yorkshire, on July 11.
The man was initially held on suspicion of the murder of Ann Widdecombe, 78, who was found dead at her home in Haytor on Dartmoor, Devon, on July 9, having suffered serious injuries. Her death was announced on July 10, with the murder investigation announced later that day.
Counter-Terrorism Investigation Launched
Two days after the murder arrest, counter-terrorism police said they had taken over the investigation and had further arrested him on suspicion of the commission, preparation or instigation of acts of terrorism. No further information has been confirmed by police regarding the motive, as politicians continue to speculate.
Head of UK counter-terrorism policing Laurence Taylor said that the murder and counter-terrorism investigations are running “in parallel”.
Legal Time Limits for Questioning
Terrorism laws allow a suspect to be held for up to seven days in the first instance, with investigators permitted to apply for time extensions up to 14 days in total. It is understood that the initial seven-day period will expire on Monday evening.
Context of Political Murders
Miss Widdecombe's death follows the murders of Conservative MP Sir David Amess in 2021 and Labour's Jo Cox in 2016. Incoming prime minister Andy Burnham has said a serious review is needed of MPs' security following Miss Widdecombe's death.
Police Statement on Arrest
It was announced on July 12 by Assistant Chief Constable Matt Longman, of Devon and Cornwall Police, that a 28-year-old white British man was arrested on suspicion of murder in Rotherham, South Yorkshire, shortly after 9pm on Saturday, with the support of Counter Terrorism Police. He told reporters: "at this point we are not looking for anyone else in connection with this murder."
He said detectives “remain open-minded about the potential motive” and stressed it is not believed there is any threat to the wider public. He added: “We are aware of online and public speculation, particularly with regards to motive. Again, I urge people not to share or engage with that speculation – it’s unhelpful, it doesn’t aid our investigation, and particularly, it’s distressing to the family and friends of Miss Widdecombe.”
