Ann Widdecombe ‘murder’ suspect had communist literature at home: Terror cops believe ‘attack’ WAS political
The brutal murder of former Tory minister Ann Widdecombe has taken a dramatic turn as counter-terrorism officers treat the killing as a suspected politically motivated terrorist attack.
Counter-terrorism police have taken over the investigation after discovering Russian communist literature and other items of political ideology at the home of the suspected killer, a 28-year-old local labourer from Rotherham. The discovery has led to a U-turn in the investigation, with officers probing whether the 78-year-old Widdecombe was bludgeoned to death in a premeditated attack on Reform UK, a party she frequently defended on TV and radio.
Widdecombe, who had been living alone since her retirement in 2010, was a well-known figure for her strong views on immigration and justice. Her home had featured on a TV programme just days before her death, and police believe the suspect may have targeted her due to her prominent political views. The suspect, who is not thought to have known Widdecombe, was captured on CCTV leaving his property with what appears to be a pole in his pocket on the day of the murder.
The initial investigation into the murder was led by Devon and Cornwall Police, who initially ruled out terrorism and a political motivation. However, the force was later criticised for misleading the public in the initial stages of the investigation. Reform UK accused Devon and Cornwall police of misleading the public, with board member Gawain Towler saying: "In the past, they'd have said all avenues of investigation are open but this time they tried to close out avenues of the investigation." The killing has reignited fears about MPs' safety following the murders of David Amess and Jo Cox.
Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood confirmed that the British white suspect was not known to the Government's deradicalisation programme, Prevent. Police are making inquiries about his mental health, and it is understood that officers are probing whether the suspect was a self-radicalised loner who considered Widdecombe an 'easy target' in comparison to more prominent party figures. The suspect was re-arrested on suspicion of commission, preparation or instigation of acts of terrorism by Counterterrorism Policing South East, and remains in custody.
The killing of Ann Widdecombe has sent shockwaves through the UK, and raises concerns about the safety of politicians and public figures. The case highlights the need for vigilance and cooperation between law enforcement agencies to prevent and investigate politically motivated attacks. As the investigation continues, the people of Ghana and the UK will be watching closely to see how the case unfolds.
Source: Daily Mail
