Counter Terrorism Policing London (CTP London) has reopened an investigation into a firebomb attack involving an incendiary device pushed through the letterbox of Nigel Farage’s London home in April 2025. The renewed inquiry is part of the ongoing investigation into the July 8 murder of Ann Widdecombe, a former Conservative MP and Reform UK spokesperson, who was found dead at her Devon residence after suffering multiple blunt force injuries.

The original incident at Farage’s south London property, described by the Reform UK leader as an “outright arson attempt,” involved damage to a door but no theft. At the time, police treated the case as an attempted burglary, but no arrests were made, and the investigation was closed. Farage was not at home when the device was placed, but discovered the damage upon his return.

CTP London stated that during their current investigation into Widdecombe’s death, they identified a line of inquiry connected to the Farage incident that was "not identified and pursued" during the initial probe. As such, the inquiry into the April 2025 incident has been reopened. Vicki Evans, senior national coordinator for Counter Terrorism Policing, emphasized the importance of revisiting this element due to its potential relevance to Widdecombe’s case and the broader investigation.

The renewed scrutiny has also led CTP London to refer itself to the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) to review how the original inquiry was handled. The IOPC confirmed it will conduct an independent investigation into the conduct of a CTP London staff member based on an allegation that a line of inquiry was overlooked during the attempted burglary investigation. No further details were provided at this stage.

Ann Widdecombe, 78, served as a Conservative MP for over two decades and held ministerial roles in John Major’s government before becoming a Reform UK representative. Her death at her home in Haytor on Dartmoor resulted from blunt force trauma. Joshua Kerry, 28, from Rotherham, South Yorkshire, was charged with her murder and remains in custody without having entered a plea.

Following Widdecombe’s death, Reform UK provided round-the-clock security for its MPs amid concerns over the safety of public figures. Farage, who recently stepped down as Clacton MP amid a parliamentary standards inquiry and is standing in an upcoming by-election, has voiced longstanding worries regarding personal security risks faced by politicians.

Authorities continue to support the families of both Farage and Widdecombe as investigations proceed. The reopening of the inquiry into the attempted burglary and incendiary device is being closely monitored due to its potential connection to Widdecombe’s murder and the broader implications for public safety in political contexts.