UK police charge man with alleged terrorism plot involving Nigel Farage

British police have charged a man with preparing acts of terrorism, including alleged plans targeting Reform UK leader Nigel Farage. The suspect, Joshua Kerry, was also charged with the murder of former MP and Reform UK spokesperson Ann Widdecombe. Police said the terrorism-related conduct allegedly took place between May 31, 2024 and July 8, 2026.

Deputy Assistant Commissioner Vicki Evans described the investigation as intensive and complex. She said the charge reflected the seriousness of the allegations. According to the prosecutor handling the case, Kerry allegedly struck Widdecombe on the head 21 times with a hammer while she was eating lunch.

Her death prompted reactions across British politics and calls for stronger security arrangements for lawmakers. Kerry is 28 and is due to appear at a London magistrates’ court on October 7. The supplied material did not provide details of the alleged plan involving Farage or identify any other suspected participants.

The charges come amid wider concern in Britain about threats against politicians. Two other politicians were murdered during the decade, according to the supplied material. Labour MP Jo Cox was killed in 2016 by a man described as a neo-Nazi sympathiser.

Conservative MP David Amess was murdered in 2021 by a supporter of Islamic State. The police announcement concerns allegations and does not establish guilt. The case will proceed through the criminal courts.

Authorities have not disclosed further evidence supporting the terrorism charge. Kerry’s court appearance is expected to provide the next formal stage in the proceedings. The supplied material did not say whether Kerry had entered pleas to the charges or whether he had legal representation.

It also did not state what security changes, if any, had been introduced following Widdecombe’s death.