The hacking death of British soldier Lee Rigby at the hands of suspects Michael Adebolajo and alleged accomplice Michael Adebowale on May 22 has sparked unrest in London and the entire United Kingdom. Adebolajo’s family released a statement yesterday (May 28) in an attempt to quiet the growing tensions.
Thought to be members of a radical Muslim group and linked to so-called hate preacher Anjem Choudary, Adebolajo, and Adebowale face murder charges as far-right activists have declared war on Islamist groups.
The Guardian printed the full Adebolajo family statement, which condemned the actions of the 28-year-old, and offered prayers to Rigby.
“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,” reads part of the statement.
Adebolajo and Adebowale were gunned down at the scene of the crime, and several video clips show Adebolajo ranting madly with a bloodied knife and meat cleaver in his hands into the cell phone camera of a witness. The gruesome murder near the Woolwich barracks has been label a terrorist attack by the British press, and there has been a massive manhunt by police to bring anyone linked to the pair in for questioning.
Adebowale, 22, was released from the hospital and taken directly into custody by armed guards shortly after the statement was released. Adebolajo is still in the hospital recovering from his wounds.
The English Defence League (EDL), a far-right group filled with members known for Football (soccer) hooliganism, has taken to the streets to protest while chanting Rigby’s name. They are asking the British government to enact strict sanctions on the Muslim groups in the nation.
Rigby, a war veteran and military drummer was 25. He leaves behind a toddler son, Jack.
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Photo: ITV
