Counter-terrorism police take over Widdecombe murder investigation
5 reported
Counter Terrorism Policing (CTP) has taken over the investigation into the murder of Ann Widdecombe, following what its chief described as new information and evidence. Laurence Taylor, head of national CTP, issued a statement saying the unit is now leading the investigation, building on progress by Devon and Cornwall Police. Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood confirmed the development, stating she had spoken with Taylor and that police are pursuing multiple lines of enquiry to establish the attack’s motivation. The move comes after Nigel Farage suggested over the weekend that the killing was politically motivated, despite Devon and Cornwall Police previously stating there was no information to suggest it was terrorism-related or politically motivated. Harvey Proctor, a former Tory MP and close friend of Widdecombe, criticized Farage’s remarks, saying her murder should not be exploited as political propaganda. Richard Tice, Reform UK deputy leader, posted on social media calling The Times’ coverage of the matter “sick” and asking how many more Reform politicians must die.
What’s reported
Laurence Taylor, head of national Counter Terrorism Policing, said new information and evidence led to CTP taking over the investigation.
Devon and Cornwall Police had previously said there was “no information to suggest this was a terrorism-related incident” and “nothing to suggest that it was politically motivated.”
Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood announced the development and said she would update the House further that afternoon.
Harvey Proctor, a former Tory MP and close friend of Widdecombe, criticized Nigel Farage for speculating about political motivation.
Richard Tice, Reform UK deputy leader, posted on social media calling The Times’ coverage “sick” and asking “How many more Reform politicians do you want dead?”
Key figures
Laurence Taylor, head of national Counter Terrorism Policing (CTP)
Ann Widdecombe, murder victim
Shabana Mahmood, Home Secretary
Nigel Farage, Reform UK figure (mentioned but not heard from in the article)
Harvey Proctor, former Tory MP and close friend of Widdecombe
Richard Tice, Reform UK deputy leader
Sources: The Guardian
