The killing of veteran parliamentarian Ann Widdecombe is now being investigated as a terrorist incident, officers have confirmed.
Counter Terrorism Policing South East is taking charge of the inquiry into the suspected murder of the 78-year-old following fresh evidence.
The former Conservative MP and Reform UK press secretary was discovered deceased at her residence in Haytor, Dartmoor, at approximately 11.40am on Thursday July 9, bearing severe injuries.
A 28-year-old individual from Rotherham in South Yorkshire was taken into custody on Saturday evening July 11 and is believed to remain with police.
Counter-terrorism officers have again detained the white British man on suspicion of carrying out, organising, or directing terrorist acts, and are now heading the inquiry into Ms Widdecombe’s death.
They stated that fresh information and evidence had surfaced during the investigation.
National Counter Terrorism Policing Lead Laurence Taylor commented that building on work completed by Devon and Cornwall Police officers, they now possessed new information and evidence allowing Counter Terrorism Policing to take command of the inquiry.
Multiple investigative avenues were being pursued to determine the motivation behind the attack, he added.
The focus remained on advancing the investigation swiftly using all available resources. Anyone with information should pass it to officers, he stated.
Gratitude was expressed to local communities, the public, and media for their continued support and patience, with a request for continued assistance as the investigation progressed to its next phase.
Devon and Cornwall Police officials consider Miss Widdecombe sustained her injuries last Wednesday July 8 at around 12.30pm.
A significant law enforcement presence was observed on Byrley Road in Kimberworth Park, Rotherham, at a property connected to the individual in custody.
Ms Widdecombe secured her initial parliamentary seat in Kent in 1987.
She subsequently represented the Brexit Party as an MEP before taking on the role of spokesperson for Reform UK.
Beyond elected politics, she gained public recognition through participation in programmes including Strictly Come Dancing and Celebrity Big Brother.
The inquiry continues.