"I would appeal to anyone who may have information about this incident, however insignificant it may seem, to come forward and speak with us," said Longman.
The department requested the public to refrain from circulating unverified theories online out of respect for the grieving family.
"We will release further information when we are able to do so.
In the meantime, I would ask people not to speculate about what might have happened, particularly on social media," said Longman.
Longman concluded by noting that internet speculation harms operational integrity and compounds the grief of the victim's relatives.
"This is not only potentially harmful to our investigation but also deeply distressing for family and friends of Miss Widdecombe.
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The family have also asked for their privacy to be respected as they come to terms with what has happened," said Longman.
