Counter-terror police reopen investigation into firebomb attack at Nigel Farage’s home
Counter-terrorism police have reopened an investigation into a firebomb attack at Nigel Farage’s residence, linked to the ongoing murder inquiry of former MP Ann Widdecombe, reports BritPanorama.
The alleged incident, described by The Telegraph as a “lit incendiary device” being inserted into Farage’s letterbox, occurred at an address in Greater London and was initially reported in April 2025.
The Metropolitan Police and Counter Terrorism Policing (CTP) London initially explored the case as an “attempted burglary,” but no arrests were made, leading to its closure pending new information.
Mr. Farage was not at home when the attack took place and discovered the damage upon his return. He previously characterized the event as an “outright arson attempt.” “Luckily it had burned itself out on the porch,” he told The Telegraph in April.
After the renewed inquiry, CTP London indicated they have identified a relevant lead that was previously overlooked. The Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) is now investigating the conduct of a CTP staff member accused of failing to pursue this line of inquiry.
It has been reported that Farage is “horrified” at the reinvestigation of the 2025 incident, which has become entwined with the probe into Widdecombe’s murder. A source stated that a significant policing error led to this unprecedented self-referral by counter-terrorism.
Widdecombe, 78, died on 8 July after being struck 21 times with a hammer at her home in Haytor, Devon. Joshua Kerry, 28, has been charged with murder and is awaiting his next court appearance after not entering a plea.
In the wake of Widdecombe’s death, Reform UK MPs have received round-the-clock security due to fears of similar attacks. Farage has previously voiced concerns over the safety of public figures, stating that the political environment has grown increasingly perilous.
Vicki Evans, the senior national co-ordinator for Counter Terrorism Policing, confirmed the reopened investigation as part of the inquiry into Widdecombe’s murder. “Given the nature of this matter and the significant public interest, it was critical for us to provide this update,” she noted.
CTP London has made a “mandatory conduct referral” to the police watchdog. An IOPC spokesperson confirmed that an investigation into the conduct of a staff member is underway, following an allegation that they neglected to pursue relevant lines of inquiry related to the attempted burglary reported in April 2025.
This ongoing inquiry not only underscores the issue of safety for public figures but also highlights the accountability mechanisms within policing that aim to ensure thorough investigations.
