Reform UK deputy leader Richard Tice has criticised police after a major update in the murder investigation of former Tory minister Ann Widdecombe led to the reopening of an inquiry into a firebombing at Nigel Farage’s home.
Police Refer Themselves to Watchdog
Counter Terrorism Policing has referred itself to the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) over its failure to properly investigate an arson attack at a property belonging to Mr Farage in 2025. The attack involved an incendiary device pushed through the letterbox of the Reform leader’s home, according to The Telegraph.
Mr Tice told the newspaper: “Only recently have the authorities woken up to the abuse and intimidation I and other Reform MPs have had, despite plenty of real examples that we have provided.
“I was perhaps very lucky with one particular incident I faced last year. For too long, the threats we have faced have not been taken seriously.
“The fact that the police have referred themselves to the IOPC speaks for itself. They recognise that they’ve messed up.”
Reopened Inquiry
The latest development came as counter-terrorism officers investigating Ms Widdecombe’s death reopened the inquiry into the attack on Mr Farage’s property. Police had initially believed the incident was a burglary gone wrong and no suspects were identified. Officers said they had now found a fresh line of inquiry which had not been “identified and pursued” at the time.
Widdecombe Murder
Ms Widdecombe, 78, was found dead at her Dartmoor home on July 9 after being struck on the head 21 times with a hammer. Joshua Kerry, 28, has been charged with her murder.
Reform has said Mr Farage received 1,577 threats, including 597 death threats, between February and July.
