Rupert Lowe’s guns returned after police drop investigation

Independent MP Rupert Lowe has regained his firearms after a five-month police investigation concluded without charges.

The wheelbarrow that carried away Mr Lowe’s weapons in March returned in late August to deliver them back, marking the end of an investigation that began with claims of abuse from his former Reform UK colleagues.

Armed police had descended on his Cotswolds farm at 21:30 on 14 March with three vehicles and four officers, arriving unannounced despite Mr Lowe having arranged voluntary surrender the previous day. The collection proved so extensive that makeshift transport was required – the wheelbarrow becoming an enduring symbol of the case.

Mr Lowe described the late-night seizure as “a deeply stressful situation”, particularly given his prior cooperation. The farmer maintained throughout that gun ownership was standard for his profession and entirely legal.

Crown prosecutors concluded in May there was insufficient evidence to support allegations that Mr Lowe had threatened Reform chairman Zia Yusuf, effectively ending the investigation that had stripped a legal gun owner of his property for five months based on claims that lacked evidence.

“Positive news,” said Mr Lowe on social media, announcing the return of his guns. “I am pleased they’re back, but furious they were ever taken.”

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