STOCKHOLM, Sweden — Salwan Momika, the Iraqi-born man who ignited global outrage by staging Quran-burning protests in Sweden, was shot dead in the Swedish capital on Wednesday, January 29, 2025, authorities confirmed.
A spokesperson for Sweden’s prosecutor’s office told news outlets that Momika was killed in a shooting incident, while Stockholm police said five suspects had been arrested on suspicion of murder.
The 37-year-old, who gained international attention in 2023 for publicly desecrating copies of the Quran, was set to receive a verdict on Thursday in a trial where he was accused of incitement to racial hatred.
His sentencing has now been postponed, according to Goran Lundahl, a lawyer for Stockholm’s District Court.
A Controversial Figure
Momika, who arrived in Sweden from Iraq in 2018, became a polarising figure due to his provocative demonstrations.
His Quran-burning protests, conducted under the banner of free speech, led to diplomatic tensions between Sweden and several Muslim-majority nations.
In an interview with CNN in 2023, Momika defended his actions, claiming that the Islamic holy book “should be banned in the world because of the danger it causes to democracy, ethics, human values, human rights, and women’s rights.”
His demonstrations prompted heated debates in Sweden and beyond, with many calling for stricter laws against hate speech, while others argued that preventing such acts would violate the country’s constitutional commitment to freedom of expression.
Security Concerns and Legal Battles
Swedish authorities initially attempted to block Momika from holding his protests, denying him police permits. However, the Stockholm Court of Appeals later overturned the decision, citing his right to free speech under Swedish law.
Momika’s actions also placed him in legal jeopardy.
He was charged with incitement to racial hatred, a case that had been closely followed by both his supporters and detractors.
His legal troubles had intensified in recent months, with an account on X (formerly Twitter)—believed to be operated by him—posting regular updates on his trial.
Earlier this month, the same account had been soliciting donations to hire a lawyer in an attempt to seek asylum in the United States.
Murder Investigation Underway
Swedish authorities have launched an investigation into the murder, with national security services involved due to concerns about potential foreign influence.
Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson, speaking at a press briefing on Thursday, suggested that there is a possibility that external actors orchestrated Momika’s killing.
“The risk of foreign involvement cannot be ruled out, and therefore, our security services will be working closely with the police to determine the motives and those responsible,” Kristersson said, according to public broadcaster SVT.
Sweden has recently faced security threats linked to rising tensions over Quran desecration protests, with incidents of violence and threats targeting individuals associated with anti-Islam demonstrations.
While police have yet to disclose a motive for Momika’s killing, his high-profile actions and the backlash they sparked have raised concerns that the attack could be politically or religiously motivated.
The suspects remain in custody as the investigation continues.
