Counter-Terrorism Police Reopen Ann Widdecombe Burglary Attempt Inquiry

Counter-terrorism police have reopened an investigation into an attempted burglary at the Kent home of former Conservative MP and MEP Ann Widdecombe. The incident, which occurred in February, saw unidentified individuals attempting to force entry to her property.

Initially, Kent Police investigated the attempted break-in, but the inquiry was closed after no arrests were made. However, the South East Counter Terrorism Unit (SECTU) has now taken over the case, confirming it is connected to a broader ongoing investigation into matters of national security.

A spokesperson for SECTU stated that the unit's involvement followed the receipt of new information, which necessitated a reassessment of the original incident. The details of the wider national security investigation remain undisclosed, though the focus is clearly on potential connections beyond a standard criminal act.

Ann Widdecombe, a prominent figure known for her tenure as a minister and later as a Member of the European Parliament for the Brexit Party, has not publicly commented on the renewed investigation. The specific nature of the national security link and why her property was targeted has not been disclosed by authorities.