Police investigating the alleged murder of former MP Ann Widdecombe have stated there is currently nothing to suggest the attack was politically motivated. The 78-year-old politician was found dead at her home in Haytor, Devon, on Thursday, having sustained serious injuries. Officers believe she had been attacked approximately 24 hours prior to being discovered.

Devon and Cornwall Police announced the arrest of a 28-year-old white British man in Rotherham, South Yorkshire, on Saturday evening. The arrest was carried out by officers from Counter Terrorism Police North East and South Yorkshire Police, acting on behalf of the investigating force. Authorities confirmed they are not seeking anyone else in connection with Widdecombe's death.

Assistant Chief Constable Matt Longman emphasized that officers remain open-minded regarding a potential motive. He also reassured the public that there is not thought to be any threat to the wider community. "There is no information to suggest the attack on Widdecombe was terrorism-related," Longman told reporters on Sunday.

The family of the former Conservative minister and Reform UK spokesperson has been informed of the developments and is receiving support from specialist officers. The police have appealed to the public for information, receiving over 120 reports following an initial appeal. Longman urged anyone with further details to come forward as a priority.

Longman also requested that people refrain from speculating about the motive behind the attack, stating such speculation is unhelpful to the investigation and distressing for Widdecombe's relatives. A heightened police presence will be maintained in the Haytor area over the coming weeks.

Chief Constable James Vaughan described the investigation as an "extraordinary response to a horrific murder of a very prominent public figure." He praised the speed of the investigation, noting that a suspect is now "firmly in custody." Widdecombe served as the Conservative MP for Maidstone for 23 years, including ministerial roles under John Major's government.

After leaving Parliament in 2010, Widdecombe participated in the BBC's "Strictly Come Dancing" and was a runner-up on "Celebrity Big Brother" in 2018. She later joined the Brexit Party, representing South West England as an MEP from 2019 to 2020.

Tributes have poured in for Widdecombe. Reform UK leader Nigel Farage called her a "remarkable individual and the fiercest defender of free speech." Peter Horrell, her personal driver for a decade, laid flowers at her home and stated that Widdecombe had never expressed fear for her safety and cherished her life in the village.