Ann Widdecombe, former minister and television personality, was discovered dead in her remote bungalow on Dartmoor on Saturday.
Police have classified the case as a targeted attack and have opened a counter‑terrorism investigation.
A 28‑year‑old man was detained in South Yorkshire on suspicion of terrorism offences and murder, and remains in custody pending further inquiry.
Investigators are probing possible motives, including political extremism and whether a recent television appearance may have played a role.
Attention has focused on an online post that expressed violent wishes toward Widdecombe, stating hopes for a painful death and describing graphic torture.
The post was authored by Heather Herbert, who cited a 2019 speech by Widdecombe on free speech and declined to retract the remarks despite receiving threats.
Aberdeen University issued a statement distancing itself from the comments, affirming that they do not represent the university’s views.
During her tenure as prisons minister, Widdecombe defended a policy allowing restraints on pregnant prisoners, a practice still permitted in UK prisons.
Forensic teams conducted a thorough examination of the bungalow where the body was found.
Police continue to interview the suspect and assess any planning or preparation behind the attack.
