Suspect arrested three days after Woolwich murder denies involvement
A 21-year-old arrested in connection with the murder of soldier Lee Rigby has denied any involvement in the “atrocity”.
Hayden Allen, who is reportedly a Muslim convert, was held on Saturday on suspicion of conspiracy to commit murder by detectives from Scotland Yard’s Counter Terrorism Command.
Specialist firearms officers used a Taser on Allen as he was arrested in Charlton Lane, in Greenwich, south east London, some three days after the horrific killing of Drummer Rigby. He was later released on bail.
Michael Adebowale and Michael Adebolajo were both shot by police in the wake of the brutal murder near Woolwich barracks. Adebowale was discharged from hospital and taken into police custody, while Adebolajo remains in hospital.
Allen, who is understood to have attended the same mosque as the two main suspects, said: “I had no prior knowledge of the atrocity that happened last week and I played no part in the incident or the lead-up to it whatsoever.
“My family are wholly uninvolved. I ask that the police continue to investigate and that my family be allowed without harassment to continue their lives.”
He added: “I have been greatly distressed by all that has occurred.”
His comments come after relatives of Adebolajo released a statement sending their “heartfelt condolence” to Drummer Rigby’s family, saying there is no place for violence in the name of religion.
Police officers searched a number of properties in south east London after Allen’s arrest and one of them is understood to be his parents’ home in Thamesmead.
