Anti-terror police take over probe into death of UK politician Widdecombe

Anti-terror police have taken over the probe into the death of UK politician Ann Widdecombe following new information and evidence. This represents a reversal from last week when Devon and Cornwall Police stated there was no indication her death was terror-related or politically motivated.

Widdecombe, a former member of parliament for the Conservative Party who later joined the far-right Reform Party, was found dead with serious injuries at her home in Devon. A 28-year-old white British man has been rearrested on suspicion of terrorism-related activities. This same individual was previously arrested on suspicion of murder.

The case has stirred the political landscape and intensified concerns regarding the safety of UK officials, as it marks the third killing of a British MP in the past decade. Widdecombe, known for her socially conservative views, including opposition to abortion and support for the death penalty, was a prominent figure in the 1990s and had mainstream appeal via reality TV.

Security measures for Reform Party members have been heightened in response to her death, and the Home Secretary planned to update MPs following discussions with counterterrorism officials. Widdecombe was found with fatal injuries on Thursday, and the suspect, not yet charged, was arrested some distance from the scene.