Salwan Momika Shot Dead During Live Stream: Controversial Quran Burner Killed in Sweden Ahead of Court Verdict

 In a shocking turn of events, Salwan Momika, the Iraqi refugee renowned for his controversial Quran burnings in Sweden, was fatally shot during a live TikTok broadcast from his home in Södertälje, near Stockholm.The incident occurred on January 29, 2025, just hours before he was scheduled to receive a court verdict related to charges of incitement against an ethnic or national group.

A Controversial Figure

Salwan Momika, 38, gained international notoriety in 2023 after publicly burning copies of the Quran during demonstrations in Sweden.These acts ignited widespread outrage across Muslim-majority countries, leading to diplomatic tensions and elevating Sweden's terrorism alert to its second-highest level.Despite condemnation from the Swedish government, these actions were initially protected under free speech laws.

The Fatal Incident

According to reports, Momika was streaming live on TikTok when he was shot.A video viewed by Reuters showed police officers retrieving a phone and ending a livestream that appeared to be from Momika's account.Following the shooting, five individuals were arrested in connection with the incident. Authorities have not confirmed if the shooter is among those detained.

Legal Battles and Deportation Attempts

Prior to his death, Momika was embroiled in legal challenges.He was a defendant in a trial accused of "offences of agitation against an ethnic or national group," with a verdict expected on the day of his assassination.Additionally, Sweden's migration agency had sought to deport him for providing false information on his residency application. However, the deportation could not be executed due to concerns that he might face torture and inhumane treatment if returned to Iraq.

The Swedish Security Service is closely monitoring the situation to assess any potential impacts on national security. The Quran burnings had previously led to threats from jihadist groups, significantly affecting Sweden's security landscape.

Momika's actions and subsequent assassination have drawn international attention.The Quran burnings in 2023 led to widespread protests and condemnation from Muslim-majority countries, straining Sweden's diplomatic relations. The recent events are likely to further complicate these relationships and have broader implications for discussions on freedom of expression and religious sensitivity.

The assassination of Salwan Momika marks a significant and tragic chapter in the ongoing discourse surrounding freedom of expression and religious tolerance.As investigations continue, the incident underscores the delicate balance between upholding free speech and respecting religious beliefs, a challenge that societies worldwide continue to navigate.