Salwan Momika, an Iraqi-born activist known for his controversial Quran-burning demonstrations in Sweden, has reportedly been shot dead in Södertälje, near Stockholm.
Authorities responded to reports of a shooting and found a man with gunshot wounds. He was rushed to the hospital but later succumbed to his injuries. Multiple media sources have identified the deceased as Momika.
Momika gained international notoriety in 2023 after staging multiple Quran-burning protests, which triggered outrage across the Muslim world and strained diplomatic relations between Sweden and several Middle Eastern countries. These incidents also raised security concerns within Sweden, prompting authorities to heighten threat levels.
At the time of his death, Momika was facing trial for “agitation against an ethnic group” due to his Quran-burning activities. The court was set to deliver a verdict on January 30, but the ruling has now been postponed to February 3 following his death.
In connection with the shooting, authorities have arrested five individuals and launched a murder investigation. Reports indicate that the attack may have been broadcast live on social media, though officials are still verifying the details.
Swedish authorities have also suggested that a “foreign power” may have been involved in the killing, though they have not provided further details at this time.
