A Swedish anti-Islam activist, Salwan Momika, has been shot dead while livestreaming on social media. The incident occurred in Momika’s apartment in the Hovsjö district of Sweden.
According to reports, five people have been arrested for suspected involvement in the incident. Momika was known for burning Qurans in public demonstrations, sparking outrage and protests across the Muslim world.
“We were called out at 11.11pm to a suspected shooting and we have been able to confirm that one person is injured,” said Daniel Wikdahl, a police spokesperson.
Momika’s friend and fellow activist, Salwan Najem, confirmed that Momika had died. “I have been contacted by the police, and they have confirmed that Salwan has died,” Najem told the Swedish newspaper Expressen.
Momika and Najem were due in court on Thursday, charged with hate crimes for allegedly burning a Quran, wrapping it in pork, and kicking it around on the ground. They had also made comments that could be classified as “inciting hatred against a group of people”.
The incident has sparked widespread condemnation, with many expressing concerns about the rise of hate speech and violence.