Ann Widdecombe investigators reopen probe into ‘arson attempt’ at Nigel Farage’s home
Counter-terrorism police have reopened an investigation into an alleged firebomb attack at Nigel Farage’s Greater London home in April 2025, following a new line of inquiry identified during the murder investigation into Ann Widdecombe. The development matters because the earlier case had been closed without arrests and is now subject to scrutiny over whether relevant evidence was overlooked.
Farage said a lit incendiary device was put through his letterbox and burned out in the porch while he was away; police originally recorded the incident as an attempted burglary. Widdecombe, a Reform UK spokesperson and former Conservative minister, died on 8 July, and 28-year-old Joshua Kerry has been charged with her murder, although he has not entered a plea. The police watchdog is independently investigating a Counter Terrorism Policing London staff member over an allegation that a line of inquiry was not identified or pursued.
- Police reopen Farage home attack investigation.
- Inquiry emerged during Widdecombe murder investigation.
- Watchdog examines potential policing failure.
Both sides, in good faith
The strongest fair case each way — we don't pick a winner.
The case for
Supporters of reopening the case argue that an incendiary device allegedly placed through a prominent politician’s letterbox should have been treated from the outset as a potentially serious attack, particularly given the risks of political intimidation. They say the newly identified lead and the watchdog inquiry make a thorough, independent reassessment necessary to establish whether evidence was missed and to maintain public confidence that threats against elected figures are investigated properly.
The case against
Those urging caution argue that reopening an investigation should not be taken as proof that the original assessment was negligent or that the incident was linked to Ann Widdecombe’s killing. They stress that initial reports can be ambiguous, investigators must follow the evidence rather than assumptions about motive or political context, and the defendant charged with Widdecombe’s murder is entitled to the presumption of innocence while separate inquiries proceed.