Nothing to suggest Ann Widdecombe killing was politically motivated, police say

Police authorities investigating the death of Ann Widdecombe have stated that there is no evidence suggesting the incident was politically motivated. The 78-year-old former Member of Parliament and Member of the European Parliament was discovered at her residence in Haytor, Devon, on Thursday with severe injuries. Officers believe the attack occurred nearly a day before her body was found.

A 28-year-old white British man was arrested in Rotherham, South Yorkshire, on Saturday in connection with the case. Following this arrest, Devon and Cornwall Police confirmed that they are not seeking any other suspects. The operation was conducted by Counter Terrorism Police North East and South Yorkshire Police on behalf of Devon and Cornwall Police, with the arrest taking place shortly after 9 p.m. BST.

Assistant Chief Constable Matt Longman emphasized that while officers remain open-minded about the motive behind the attack, there is no current indication of a threat to the wider community. He also clarified that there is no intelligence linking the attack to terrorism. Meanwhile, the family of Widdecombe, who had served as a Conservative minister and subsequently as a spokesperson for Reform UK, have been kept informed and are receiving support from specialist officers.

Since the incident, Devon and Cornwall Police have received over 120 reports of information related to the case. Longman urged anyone who has not yet come forward with information to do so urgently, highlighting the importance of public assistance in the ongoing investigation

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