Police are investigating reports that the White Widow, one of the world’s most wanted terrorists, has been spotted checking into a hotel owned by Duncan Bannatyne.
Samantha Lewthwaite was reportedly spotted by guests when she allegedly checked into Bannatyne hotel in Darlington on Boxing Day.
Lewthwaite, 32, is said to have been involved in a series of terror atrocities internationally, including the 2013 attack on the Westgate Mall in Kenya and the Garissa University College attack which took place last year. More than 200 people were murdered in the attacks.
Originally from Northern Ireland, the mother of four converted to Islam as a teenager and is thought to have fled the UK for Africa before joining militant group al-Shabaab following the 2005 attacks in London.
She is the subject of a Red Notice by Interpol, who issued the international arrest warrant at the request of Kenyan authorities.
A spokesperson for the hotel confirmed to the Press Association that Durham Police are investigating the reported sighting.
A Durham Police spokesperson said: “Police received a report that a woman said to resemble Samantha Lewthwaite, aka The White Widow, had checked into Bannatyne’s Hotel, Darlington on Boxing Day.
“Inquiries are currently taking place in relation to the report.”
The four star hotel is part of a chain run by the Dragons' Den businessman.
With additional reporting by PA
