British counterterrorism police have reopened an attempted burglary investigation in London as part of the ongoing Ann Widdecombe murder probe. The development comes after investigators identified a line of inquiry that was not pursued when the original case was investigated in 2025.
Police Reopen 2025 Burglary Investigation
The Metropolitan Police received a report of an attempted burglary at an address in Greater London in April 2025. Officers investigated the incident with support from Counter Terrorism Policing London, but no arrests were made and the case was later closed.
Counter Terrorism Policing London has now reopened the investigation after identifying a previously overlooked line of inquiry that could potentially be relevant to the Widdecombe investigation.
The force has also made a mandatory referral to the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) so the handling of the original investigation can be independently reviewed.
Case Linked to Property Associated With Nigel Farage
Reports have identified the London property as an address linked to Nigel Farage, the Reform UK leader. ITV reported that Farage previously said his home had been targeted with a lit incendiary device that was pushed through the letterbox.
However, police have not publicly established that the earlier incident was connected to Widdecombe’s killing.
Authorities have also not confirmed that the person responsible for the attempted burglary played any role in the murder.
Ann Widdecombe Murder Investigation Continues
Ann Widdecombe, 78, was found dead at her home in Haytor on Dartmoor on 9 July 2026, after suffering serious injuries. Counterterrorism police subsequently took a leading role in the investigation.
Police have been examining the circumstances surrounding her death, including whether there could have been a political or terrorist connection.
The Crown Prosecution Service has confirmed that Joshua Kerry, 28, from Rotherham, has been charged with Widdecombe’s murder. Prosecutors have said inquiries into his motive, including any potential political or terrorist connection, remain ongoing.
Kerry remains in custody and has the right to a fair trial. The murder charge is not a finding of guilt.
Police Conduct Now Under Review
The reopening of the burglary investigation has also raised questions about whether an important lead was missed during the original inquiry.
The IOPC confirmed that it is independently investigating the conduct of a Counter Terrorism Policing London staff member over an allegation that the relevant line of inquiry was not identified and pursued at the time.
Police have said the victims and families involved in both investigations have been informed and are receiving support.
Investigation Remains Ongoing
Authorities have urged the public and media to avoid speculation while investigators examine the newly identified evidence.
The reopening of the burglary case does not establish a connection between that incident and Widdecombe’s death. Investigators will now review the earlier evidence and determine whether the new line of inquiry can shed light on the wider murder investigation.
The Ann Widdecombe murder probe therefore remains active, with police continuing to investigate the circumstances and possible motive behind her death.
