COUNTER terrorism police are now leading the investigation into the death of Ann Widdecombe.
It comes after "new information and evidence have come to light", officers have said.
The former Conservative minister and later Reform UK spokeswoman was found dead at her home in Haytor on Dartmoor at about 11.40am on Thursday after sustaining serious injuries.
We told how on Friday, a murder probe was launched by police into Widdecombe's death.
A 28-year-old white British man who was arrested on suspicion of her murder on Saturday has since been rearrested on suspicion of the commission, preparation or instigation of acts of terrorism.
On Sunday, there was a substantial police presence at a house in Byrley Road in the Kimberworth Park area of Rotherham – an address linked to the suspect and more than 200 miles from the former minister’s home in Devon.
Assistant Chief Constable Matt Longman, of Devon and Cornwall Police, said on Sunday the force is not looking for any other suspects.
He said: “At this point, there is still no information to suggest that this is a terrorism-related incident and at this point we are not looking for anyone else in connection with this murder.
“At this stage, there is nothing to suggest that it was politically motivated.”
The head of UK counter-terrorism policing, Laurence Taylor, said that new information and evidence had come to light during the police investigation into her murder.
Taylor said: “Building on the progress made by our colleagues in Devon and Cornwall Police, we now have new information and evidence that means Counter Terrorism Policing is now leading the investigation.
“We are pursuing multiple lines of enquiry to establish the motivation for this attack.
“Our priority is progressing this investigation quickly, with all the capabilities we have available to us. If anyone has any information, please share it with the police.
“We would like to thank local communities, the wider public and the media for their ongoing support and patience, and would ask them to continue to support us in the next stage of the investigation.”
Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood said on Twitter/X that she will update the House of Commons this afternoon.
She said: “The police are pursuing multiple lines of enquiry to establish the motivation for this attack. I will be updating the House further this afternoon.
“My thoughts today remain with Ann’s family and friends, and all those who loved her.”
Police are asking anyone with information to come forward.
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.
To remain anonymous, contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555111 or online.
