Counter-terrorism probe into Farage firebomb attack reopened after IOPC referral

Counter-terrorism officers have reopened their investigation into an alleged firebomb attack at Nigel Farage’s south London home after admitting mistakes in the original probe. The Metropolitan Police referred the case to the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC), which is now examining the conduct of a Counter-Terrorism Policing London (CTP) staff member.

The incident was first reported in April 2025, when Farage told police a "lit incendiary device" had been placed in his letterbox. At the time, the CTP classified it as an "attempted burglary" and closed the case without making any arrests, pending new evidence.

Farage links reopening to Widdecombe’s death

Farage said the reopening of the case was directly linked to the death of former Reform UK MP Ann Widdecombe. He told reporters the security services had only begun taking the safety of Reform politicians seriously after her killing. "It’s a great tragedy that it took the death of Ann for this to happen," he said.

The Reform UK leader acknowledged that the CTP’s self-referral to the IOPC was unprecedented. "Clearly, counter-terrorism made some mistakes," he said. "The fact they’ve done that shows they’re not trying to cover up." He added that he still had confidence in the police but suggested they were "very scared of what the truth is when it comes out."

What happens next

The IOPC will now determine whether the CTP staff member’s conduct in the original investigation met the standards expected of police officers. The watchdog has not disclosed a timeline for its review. The Metropolitan Police said it could not comment further while the IOPC investigation is ongoing.

Farage’s home address has not been publicly disclosed. The Met confirmed the incident occurred in south London but did not specify the borough or neighbourhood. It is unclear whether the reopening of the case will lead to new arrests or charges.