The investigation into Ann Widdecombe’s death continues to astound. Counter terrorism police have now taken the lead on the probe after ‘new information and evidence’ came to light. A 28-year-old man arrested on suspicion of murdering the former MP remains in custody and has been re-arrested on suspicion of commission, preparation or instigation of acts of terrorism. ‘We are pursuing multiple lines of enquiry to establish the motivation for this attack’, said Laurence Taylor, the Head of National Counter Terrorism Policing.
Today’s statement completely contradicts the claims of Devon and Cornwall Police who said yesterday that counter-terrorism partners had reviewed the case and ruled out a terrorist motive. This had led to much criticism online of Nigel Farage, the Reform leader and friend of Widdecombe, after he said he believed the death of the former minister was ‘premeditated murder.’ Now it transpires that Devon and Cornwall were much too quick to release such a statement. It always seemed premature to begin ruling out motives within the first few days after the crime was discovered, given the alleged suspect had driven 300 miles.
The awful events of Ann Widdecombe’s murder serve as a reminder of the ineptitude of police communications in the post-Leveson world. Under pressure to not inflame communal tensions, it is understandable why Devon and Cornwall wanted to clarify the situation. But given the high prominence and the politics around this case, it is embarrassing that they have now suffered such a public rebuttal by their colleagues.
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