UK police label death of former MP Ann Widdecombe a targeted attack

British counter-terrorism police said the killing of former MP and television personality Ann Widdecombe was a "targeted attack," though investigators have not yet determined a motive. A 28-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of murder and terrorism offences and remains in custody under an extended detention warrant that permits further questioning for up to a week.

"It is clear that this was a targeted attack," Laurence Taylor, head of National Counter Terrorism Policing, told reporters. "We are still working to understand the extent of any planning or preparation, and the motivation that sits behind that attack."

Widdecombe, 78, was found dead at her rural home in southwest England after failing to appear for a scheduled television interview. Police have not released a cause of death, noting she sustained serious injuries.

The suspect was initially detained in South Yorkshire and later re-arrested on additional terrorism-related charges after further evidence was uncovered. Police have not released the suspect's identity, as no formal charges have been filed.

Widdecombe served in the House of Commons from 1987 to 2010, held ministerial posts in the 1990s, and later appeared on reality-TV programmes. She subsequently joined the Brexit Party and, most recently, the Reform UK party.

The incident has revived concerns about the security of public figures, recalling past attacks on sitting members of Parliament.