Police say Ann Widdecombe killed in 'targeted attack' as motive investigated
Police are investigating the death of former Conservative minister and Reform UK spokeswoman Anne Widdecombe as a targeted attack. A 28-year-old suspect is being held under the Terrorism Act, though the incident has not yet been officially declared an act of terrorism.
Why it matters
The death of a prominent political figure under suspicious circumstances raises significant concerns regarding political safety and national security in the UK.
Figure caption, Attack was 'targeted' - Counter Terrorism Police
Anne Widdecombe was killed in a "targeted attack" and detectives are still working to understand the motive, police have said.
Assistant Commissioner Laurence Taylor, Head of Counter Terrorism Policing, said the appearance of the former Conservative minister turned Reform UK spokeswoman on Talk TV on the morning she was killed at her home in Devon is being looked into as part of the investigation.
In an update at New Scotland Yard, he said he could not comment when asked if the killer could have been targeting other Reform figures.
Detectives have obtained a warrant under the Terrorism Act to hold the 28-year-old suspect arrested in Rotherham on suspicion of murder for up to seven days.
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