Iraqi refugee Salwan Momika who burnt Quran shot dead in Sweden

STOCKHOLM,— Salwan Momika, an Iraqi refugee known for his outspoken criticism of Islam, was reportedly shot and killed on Wednesday night in the Hovsjo district of Sweden. Local authorities arrested five individuals in connection with the shooting on Thursday.

Momika, a 38-year-old known for burning the Quran multiple times, had received numerous death threats due to his controversial actions.

The shooting took place inside his apartment in Södertälje, where he was reportedly streaming live on TikTok at the time.

Authorities were alerted to the incident around 11 p.m. local time, when reports of a shooting in the area prompted a swift police response. Upon arriving at the scene, officers found Momika dead and began an immediate search for the shooter, the police confirmed.

The five suspects were taken into custody late Wednesday and later ordered to be detained by a prosecutor, according to Swedish police. The police have not confirmed whether the shooter is among those arrested.

While the motive behind the attack remains unclear, sources suggest that Momika’s previous actions, particularly the public burning of the Quran, may have made him a target.

The controversial incidents, which took place in front of crowds and under police supervision, had sparked outrage among Islamic extremists, who had previously issued threats against him.

Muslims view burning the Quran as an act of blasphemy, as they believe it to be the literal word of God.

The Swedish authorities have not released additional details regarding the investigation. However, this incident has raised concerns about rising tensions related to religious symbols and free speech in Sweden, as well as the safety of individuals expressing views deemed provocative by certain groups.

An expert anthropologist, speaking on the condition of anonymity, told iKurd.net that “Islam is a dangerous ideology because it encourages violence against non-Muslims and doesn’t align with Western values. It should be legally banned in Europe.”

He continued: “Followers of Islam insult Western culture during their prayers five times a day, yet they refuse to accept any criticism and even justify violence against those who offend them.”

“Religion is a matter of personal belief, not factual truth—it exists in people’s minds, which is fine. However, when it is presented as indisputable fact, it becomes dangerous. For example, if someone burned a copy of the Bible, no one would react,” she added.