Salwan Momika, Quran Burner, Shot Dead Near Stockholm

Salwan Momika, an Iraqi man known for his controversial Quran burnings in Sweden, was shot dead on January 30, 2025, in Södertälje, just hours before a court was set to issue a verdict in his trial related to incitement to hatred. The shooting has led to the arrest of five suspects, although it remains unclear if any of them were directly involved as the investigation continues. Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson expressed concerns regarding potential foreign connections to the incident, reflecting the broader implications for security in Sweden. Momika's actions had previously sparked widespread protests and riots, both in Sweden and in Muslim-majority countries, leading to heightened tensions. Reports indicate that Momika was live-streaming on TikTok at the time of the shooting, which has drawn significant media attention. His death has raised questions about freedom of expression and the consequences of provocative demonstrations in a multicultural society.