May 29, 2013 9.46 am This story is over 130 months old

Lincolnshire family of Woolwich murder suspect speak of ‘profound shame’

Family statement: The Lincolnshire-based family of one of the suspects in the Woolwich murder last week have spoken about their “profound shame and distress”.
There was increased police presence in Saxilby after a house in the Lincoln village was raided in connection with the Woolwich incident.

The Lincolnshire-based family of one of the suspects in the Woolwich murder last week have spoken about their “profound shame and distress” and sent their “heartfelt condolence” to Lee Rigby’s family.

Michael Adebowale, 22, and Michael Adebolajo, 28, have been recovering in hospital after they were shot by police following Lee Rigby’s murder in London last Wednesday.

Michael Adebolajo was listed as a resident at a house in Saxilby, near Lincoln, which was raided by police last week, but reports indicate he has not lived there for several years.

The Adebolajo family issued a statement of condolence on Tuesday: “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 to 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.”

The family’s statement added: “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.”

Meanwhile, the other suspect in the incident, Michael Adebowale, has been discharged from hospital on Tuesday afternoon and was taken into custody at a London police station.

Ten people have been arrested in connection with the murder of the 25-year-old soldier Lee Rigby so far.