STOCKHOLM — Authorities reported on Thursday the fatal shooting of an Iraqi individual known for conducting a series of Quran burnings in Sweden. Salwan Momika, 38, garnered international attention by desecrating Islam’s holy book throughout 2023, provoking outrage and criticism from various Muslim communities, which in turn led to riots and unrest across multiple regions.
The Stockholm District Court announced that a verdict regarding a trial involving Momika was postponed due to his death, as confirmed by Judge Göran Lundahl. However, specific details surrounding the time and circumstances of Momika’s death were not provided.
Police were notified about a shooting incident that occurred late Wednesday night at an apartment complex in Södertälje, located near Stockholm. Upon arrival, they discovered a man suffering from gunshot wounds who subsequently succumbed to his injuries. Reports from broadcaster SVT identified the victim as Momika.
Following the incident, prosecutors stated that five adults were apprehended overnight on murder charges, though further information regarding their identities has not been disclosed. Prosecutor Rasmus Öman remarked that the inquiry is still in its preliminary phases, indicating that further questioning of the arrested individuals and others involved is necessary.
Momika arrived in Sweden from Iraq in 2018 and was granted a residence permit for three years in 2021, according to SVT. Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson mentioned that the country’s security service is involved in the investigation, hinting at potential connections to foreign entities.
Momika maintained that his protests were aimed at Islam itself, rather than the Muslim community, emphasizing his intention to protect the Swedish populace from the teachings of the Quran. Swedish authorities permitted his demonstrations under the principle of free speech, even as charges against him were being considered.
Last March, he was detained in neighboring Norway after declaring his intent to seek asylum but was later returned to Sweden. In August, he and a co-defendant faced charges for incitement to hatred related to comments they made about the Quran burnings. A decision on their case was expected to be announced on Thursday morning.
