Political assassination?
UK police arrest second suspect in Ann Widdecombe murder investigation as detectives rule out political motive
A 28-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of the murder of former Conservative minister and Reform UK spokesperson Ann Widdecombe, as detectives say there is currently no evidence that her death was politically motivated or linked to terrorism.
The white British suspect was arrested shortly after 9pm on Saturday at an address in Rotherham, South Yorkshire, during an operation involving Counter Terrorism Policing North East and South Yorkshire Police on behalf of Devon and Cornwall Police.
He remains in police custody.
Despite the involvement of counter-terrorism officers, detectives stressed that specialist officers provided operational assistance only. Devon and Cornwall Police continue to lead the investigation and say there is no evidence to suggest the killing was terror-related or politically motivated.
Assistant Chief Constable Matt Longman urged the public to avoid speculation while inquiries continue.
“We remain open-minded regarding any potential motive, but at this stage there is nothing to suggest this was politically motivated or related to terrorism,” he said. “Speculation is unhelpful and distressing for Ann’s family and friends.”
Police also confirmed they are not seeking anyone else in connection with the investigation.
Investigation timeline
The 78-year-old former MP was found dead at her home in Haytor, on the edge of Dartmoor in Devon, at around 11.40am on Thursday after emergency services were called to the property. She had sustained serious injuries.
Detectives now believe Widdecombe was attacked at approximately 12.30pm on Wednesday, almost 24 hours before her body was discovered.
Concern was first raised after she failed to appear for a scheduled Channel 5 television interview on Wednesday afternoon. Producers became alarmed when she stopped responding to messages, prompting inquiries that ultimately led to the discovery of her body. Earlier that day, Widdecombe had appeared on TalkTV.
Earlier suspect released
The latest arrest follows the release of a 26-year-old man who had previously been arrested on suspicion of murder.
Police confirmed on Saturday that the earlier suspect had been released from custody and was no longer part of the investigation.
More than 120 public reports received
Detectives say the investigation has generated significant public interest, with more than 120 reports and pieces of information submitted by members of the public. Officers are continuing forensic examinations and witness inquiries as they work to establish the full circumstances surrounding Widdecombe’s death.
Widdecombe served as Conservative MP for Maidstone from 1987 until 2010 and was a minister in John Major’s government. After leaving Parliament, she became a Brexit Party MEP before later joining Reform UK as the party’s immigration and justice spokesperson.
She was also a familiar television personality, appearing on programmes including Strictly Come Dancing and Celebrity Big Brother.