Salwan Momika, the Iraqi-born individual notorious for burning copies of the Quran in Sweden, was shot and killed on January 29, 2025, at his home in Södertälje, a suburb of Stockholm. The incident occurred in the evening while Momika was live-streaming the event on TikTok. Authorities arrived shortly afterward to end the livestream and confirm his death.
Swedish police have arrested five individuals in connection with the incident, although details regarding the identities and involvement of the suspects, particularly whether any were directly responsible for the shooting, remain undisclosed. The motive behind the killing is still unclear, though Momika's controversial actions, including public Quran burnings, have drawn significant attention and condemnation, particularly from Muslim communities.
Momika, aged 38, had gained international notoriety in 2023 when he burned multiple copies of the Quran, asserting that the text was incompatible with Western values. His provocative acts sparked widespread protests and outrage, both within Sweden and internationally. Despite facing substantial criticism, he remained an outspoken critic of Islam, defending his actions as an exercise in free speech.
The shooting occurred just hours before a Swedish court was due to rule on one of Momika’s Quran-burning cases, adding an ironic layer to the timing of his death. Swedish police have confirmed his death but have not released additional details about the investigation.
The killing has raised concerns about the rise of Islamophobia in Sweden, with experts warning that incidents like this could further exacerbate tensions between communities. The Swedish Islamic Association expressed alarm over the increasing climate of hate and intolerance, urging stronger efforts to combat religious discrimination.
The Swedish government has yet to release an official statement, and the investigation is ongoing. As the case continues to unfold, it has captured the attention of both national and international observers, who are closely monitoring the situation.