Issued on behalf of Counter Terrorism Policing: Update - murder investigation, Ann Widdecombe
The murder investigation into the death of Ann Widdecombe is continuing today, with further details provided by Counter Terrorism Policing.
A 28-year-old man arrested in connection with this incident remains under arrest on suspicion of commission, preparation or instigation of acts of terrorism, as we well as on suspicion of murder. A warrant of further detention has been granted, which means the suspect can now be held for questioning for up to seven days under the Terrorism Act.
Head of National Counter Terrorism, Laurence Taylor, provided the following update: “The shocking death of Ann Widdecombe has very much dominated the headlines since the news first broke last week.
“This incident has had a deeply distressing impact on Ann Widdecombe’s family, and we are doing all we can to support them, alongside our colleagues in Devon and Cornwall Police.
“The thoughts of everyone at Counter Terrorism Policing are with them at what is a very challenging time. As we confirmed yesterday, Counter Terrorism Policing South East are now leading the investigation.
“This is due to new information and evidence coming to light following the arrest of a 28-year-old man on Saturday in South Yorkshire. It is clear that this was a targeted attack. We are still working to understand the extent of any planning or preparation, and the motivation that sits behind it.
“Extensive searches have taken place at an address in Rotherham and scenes remain in place as that activity continues.
“This is a complex investigation and there are multiple lines of enquiry that we are pursuing expeditiously including digital forensic examinations. I am very aware of the significant levels of public interest in this case, given that Miss Widdecombe was such a high-profile political and public figure, and familiar to many.
“I do not intend to address every bit of speculation we have seen, but I would like to use this opportunity to remind the public that investigations of this type are complex, and new information can emerge as officers progress their enquiries. We intend to release further information when it’s available and appropriate to do so.
“Please allow us to do our job, thoroughly, and carefully, and think before sharing unverified information. It is important to remember that this is a murder investigation, following a brutal attack on a 78-year-old lady in her own home. I want to ensure that our work is conducted sensitively and considers the impact of what has happened.
“I would like to end by reassuring all of those who knew, or knew of, Ann Widdecombe that our excellent teams of investigators are working incredibly hard, with the aim of securing justice for her and her family. If you have any information that you think might help us with this investigation, please contact the police.”
Any relevant information, images or footage can be reported via the Major Incident Public Portal https://mipp.police.uk/operation/50DC26S51-PO1 or to Devon and Cornwall Police on 101.
Information can also be passed anonymously to the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.