Arrest Over Threatening Social Media Post
A man has been arrested in connection with an alleged threat to shoot Reform UK leader Nigel Farage, which was made in a social media post.
The arrest concerns a post published on X that was reported to the police on 8 May, the day following the local and mayoral elections.
The Metropolitan Police stated that a man in his 20s was apprehended in south London on Tuesday this week on suspicion of sending threatening communications to a Member of Parliament.
He has been released on bail pending further investigations.
Context and Related Investigations
This arrest occurred six days after Reform UK spokesperson Ann Widdecombe was found dead at her home in Devon. Counter-terrorism police are conducting an investigation into her death.
The Parliamentary Liaison and Investigation Team informed Nigel Farage about the arrest on Wednesday.
Statements from Nigel Farage and Reform UK
"This is the first time the police have ever proactively acted on a social media post, and I hope they are looking at the other three or four hundred similar posts from this year alone."
Earlier on Wednesday, Reform UK's home affairs spokesperson announced that if the party were in government, it would ensure "round-the-clock protection" for all Members of Parliament.
Announcing the proposed policy at a press conference, Zia Yusuf also said Farage "lives his life under the ever-present threat of mortal danger" and those who "question his need for security should stop."
