The family of Romford man Michael Adebolajo, one of two suspected of murdering a soldier in Woolwich, have expressed “profound shame and distress” over the death, as the second accused killer was discharged from hospital after being shot by police.
Relatives of Michael Adebolajo, 28, released a statement sending their “heartfelt condolence” to Lee Rigby’s family, and saying there is no place for violence in the name of religion.
The former Marshalls Park schoolboy and Michael Adebowale, 22, were both shot by police in the wake of Drummer Rigby’s death after apparently charging towards armed officers.
Adebowale was discharged from hospital yesterday afternoon and moved to police custody.
The statement, from Adebolajo’s family, who lived in Eastern Avenue East, reads: “Nothing we say can undo the events of last week.
“However, as a family, we wish to share with others our horror at the senseless killing of Lee Rigby and express our profound shame and distress that this has brought on our family.
“We send our heartfelt condolence to Lee Rigby’s family and loved ones.
“We wish so state openly that we believe that there is no place for violence in the name of religion or politics. We believe all right thinking members of society share this view wherever they were born and whatever their religion and political beliefs.
“We wholeheartedly condemn all those who engage in acts of terror and fully reject any suggestion by them that religion or politics can justify this kind of violence.
“We unreservedly put out faith in the rule of law and with others fully expect that all the perpetrators will be brought to justice under the law of the land.
“And we pray for Lee Rigby’s soul to rest in peace, for the Lord to comfort his parents and loved ones and provide all of us affected the strength and fortitude to cope with this tragedy.
“In all the circumstances and in respect to on-going police investigations, this is the only statement we wish to give. We ask that we are not contacted for further comments.”
A woman claiming to be Adebolajo’s sister, Blessing Daniels, of Kings Lynn Drive, Harold Hill, had previously told the Recorder: “We didn’t know he was going to do this.”
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here