British police have launched a murder investigation following the death of former Conservative minister and Brexit campaigner Ann Widdecombe. The 78-year-old was found dead with serious injuries at her home in Dartmoor, Devon.

Detective Chief Inspector Ilona Rosson stated that the inquiry is in its early stages but progressing rapidly. Authorities believe the suspect is a white male. No motive or background details have been released yet.

Rosson appealed for witnesses, particularly those who saw suspicious activity near Haytor Vale or have CCTV, doorbell, or dashcam footage. She urged the public not to speculate on social media, as it could harm the investigation and distress the family.

Widdecombe served as a Conservative MP from 1987 to 2010 and held ministerial roles under John Major in the 1990s. A vocal Brexit supporter, she later aligned with Nigel Farage's Brexit Party and Reform UK, serving as the party's spokeswoman on immigration and justice.

Police are deploying all necessary resources to locate the perpetrator and have promised further updates as the investigation progresses.

Source: www.dw.com