Salwan Momika, an Iraqi refugee known for publicly burning copies of the Quran, was fatally shot in his apartment in Sodertalje, Sweden. Authorities are investigating potential foreign involvement in the incident.
Salwan Sabah Matti Momika, 38, gained international attention in 2023 for organizing public demonstrations in Sweden where he desecrated and burned copies of the Quran. These actions led to significant controversy and heightened tensions between Sweden and several Muslim-majority countries.
On the night of January 29, 2025, Momika was found with multiple gunshot wounds in his Sodertalje apartment. He was transported to a local hospital, where he was pronounced dead. The incident was reportedly broadcast live on social media, adding to its shocking nature.
Swedish authorities have arrested five individuals in connection with the shooting. Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson described the killing as a “spectacular” incident and indicated that security services are heavily involved in the investigation. He also noted the possibility of foreign power involvement, stating, “There is obviously a risk that there is a connection to a foreign power.”
Momika’s Quran-burning demonstrations had previously led to legal challenges. He was facing charges of “agitation against an ethnic or national group” for his actions during the summer of 2023. A verdict in this case was expected shortly before his death but has been postponed due to the circumstances.
In 2024, the Swedish Migration Agency revoked Momika’s residency permit, citing false information in his original application. He subsequently fled to Norway seeking asylum but was arrested and deported back to Sweden.
The assassination has raised concerns about freedom of expression and the potential influence of external actors on domestic affairs in Sweden. The investigation is ongoing, with authorities exploring all possible motives and connections related to the case.
