Counter-terrorism police link Barnet murder suspect to Farage arson probe

Counter Terrorism Policing London has reopened its investigation into an alleged arson attempt at Nigel Farage’s south London home after identifying a potential link to Joshua Kerry, the 28-year-old charged last month with the murder of former Conservative MP Ann Widdecombe. The incident, which Farage described as an "outright arson attempt," occurred in early 2025 when a lit incendiary device was pushed through his letterbox.

The Metropolitan Police initially investigated the incident as an "attempted burglary" but made no arrests and closed the case pending new evidence. The Times first reported that counter-terrorism officers are now examining whether Kerry was involved. A spokesperson for Counter Terrorism Policing London confirmed that a line of inquiry "may have been relevant" but was not pursued during the original investigation.

IOPC investigates police conduct

The Independent Office for Police Conduct has launched an investigation into the conduct of a Counter Terrorism Policing London staff member. The watchdog is examining allegations that the employee "failed to identify and pursue a line of inquiry" related to the 2025 incident. The IOPC has not named the individual or provided further details about the nature of the alleged failure.

Farage addressed the developments during a press conference on Monday. He said, "Clearly counter-terrorism made some mistakes, which is why they referred themselves to the Independent Office of Police Conduct. I understand this is a completely unprecedented move, and yes, this is directly linked to the murder of Ann Widdecombe, and I’m afraid I just can’t tell you any more than that at this stage."

What happens next

The counter-terrorism investigation into Kerry’s potential involvement in the 2025 arson attempt remains active. The IOPC’s inquiry into the CTP London staff member is also ongoing, with no timeline provided for its conclusion. Kerry is currently in custody awaiting trial for the murder of Ann Widdecombe, which took place at her home in Devon last month.