An Iraqi man who staged multiple Quran burnings in Sweden has been killed, according to a judge in Stockholm. Swedish media report that the man was shot dead in a nearby city and prosecutors said five people were arrested during the night.
Newsweek has reached out to Swedish police for comment via email
Why It Matters
Salwan Momika's Quran burnings in Sweden ignited global controversy, sparking anger across Muslim-majority nations and leading to riots and unrest. The incident highlights ongoing tensions surrounding freedom of expression, religious sensitivities, and the right to protest.
The case raises questions about the limits of free speech and the extent to which such acts are protected under the law in Sweden, especially when they provoke violent responses.
What To Know
Momika, a 38-year-old Iraqi man, was involved in several Quran burnings and desecrations in Sweden in 2023. His actions, which were filmed and shared widely, triggered outrage in several Muslim nations, resulting in widespread protests.
The Stockholm district court announced on Thursday that a verdict scheduled in one of Momika's trials was postponed because one of the defendants had died. Judge Göran Lundahl said that Momika was the deceased but did not disclose details on how or when he died.
What About the Shooting?
On Wednesday night, police responded to a shooting in an apartment building in Sodertalje, near Stockholm, where they found a man with gunshot wounds. He later died, and police opened a preliminary murder investigation. Swedish broadcaster SVT reported that the victim was Momika, though they did not specify sources.
Momika came to Sweden in 2018 from Iraq, receiving a three-year residence permit in 2021.
Targeting Islam, Not Muslims
Momika's Quran burnings sparked widespread debate. He argued that his actions targeted the religion of Islam, not Muslims themselves, and stated that he was trying to protect Sweden's population from the messages in the Quran. Swedish police allowed his protests, citing freedom of speech, though they filed charges against him.
In March, Momika was arrested in neighboring Norway for seeking asylum but was sent back to Sweden. In August, he and a co-defendant were charged with incitement to hatred due to their statements related to the Quran burnings.
What Are People Saying
Prosecutor Rasmus Öman told Swedish news agency TT that five people had been arrested in the case. He did not elaborate.
Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson said: "There is obviously a risk that there is a connection to a foreign power."
What Happens Next
A verdict in Momika's incitement trial was expected on Thursday, but it has now been delayed due to his death. Swedish authorities have opened a murder investigation, although details are scarce.
This article includes reporting from the Associated Press.
About the writer
Amir Daftari is a Newsweek reporter based in London, specializing in global affairs with a focus on the Middle East. ... Read more