Former British government minister Ann Widdecombe (78) was found dead at her home in rural southwest England last Thursday with what police described as “serious injuries”.
On Friday, local police gave a press conference laying out what they knew, noting they did not suspect a political motive for her death. By Monday all that had changed. British counter-terrorism police officers are now leading the investigation.
Late on Saturday they arrested a white British man in Rotherham, northern England, on suspicion of her murder. He was then rearrested under anti-terrorism legislation, although how a terrorism link was established has yet to be revealed.
As well as being a politician, Widdecombe was a British celebrity having appeared on blockbuster TV shows including Strictly Come Dancing and Celebrity Big Brother.
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She was a prominent and active member of Nigel Farage’s populist Reform UK, having left the Conservatives after she stood down from parliament in 2010.
As a socially conservative, devout Catholic, what were her political beliefs and why was she a divisive figure?
And with her violent death now being treated as politically motivated, security for UK politicians is under increased scrutiny.
Irish Times London correspondent Mark Paul reports.
Presented by Bernice Harrison. Produced by Suzanne Brennan.
