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Salwan Momika, an Iraqi refugee known for burning the Quran multiple times in Sweden, was shot dead in Södertälje, near Stockholm, according to reports by news agency AFP. His actions, which incited significant outrage in various Muslim countries throughout 2023, led to protests and heightened tensions. As a court in Stockholm was set to determine whether Momika was guilty of inciting ethnic hatred, the proceedings were postponed following his death. A court official stated that the ruling could not proceed as "one of the defendants has died." Momika, 38, had been under investigation for charges related to incitement against ethnic communities amidst his controversial protests. Reports from Swedish news agency SVT confirmed the incident, indicating that Momika was shot before the anticipated legal decision. His actions had previously resulted in widespread protests and unrest in several Muslim-majority nations, highlighting the fraught relationship between freedom of expression and religious sentiments in contemporary society.

Salwan Momika, a 38-year-old Iraqi man known for conducting several Quran burnings in Sweden, was shot and killed late Wednesday in Södertälje, near Stockholm. His death was confirmed by a judge in Stockholm, where proceedings related to his ongoing trial were set to occur. The Stockholm District Court postponed its verdict due to the unexpected death of Momika, officials stated. Momika gained international attention in 2023 for his controversial demonstrations, which sparked outrage across several Muslim-majority nations and incited violent protests. The burnings raised significant concerns regarding freedom of speech and hate speech, leading to legal actions against him. Prosecutor Rasmus Öman disclosed that multiple individuals were arrested in connection with the shooting, although details have not been released. Reports indicate that Momika arrived in Sweden from Iraq in 2018 and was granted a residence permit in 2021. His protests were aimed at critiquing Islam, arguing that they targeted the ideology rather than its followers.

The Swedish government is exploring options to send some inmates to serve their sentences in foreign prisons due to anticipated overcrowding issues in domestic facilities. Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson’s government, formed in 2022, is under pressure to address rising crime, particularly acts linked to rival gang conflicts, which have surged in recent years, including over 30 bombings this year alone. Justice Minister Gunnar Strommer announced that the increased incarceration rates would contribute to strain on Sweden's prison system. A feasibility study suggests that arrangements should be made within the European Union or Schengen area, although specific country partnerships remain undefined. Other nations, such as Norway and Denmark, have already utilized this practice. Opposition has emerged from the Seko trade union, which represents prison employees. Union leader Christer Hallkvist criticized the notion of outsourcing, emphasizing the need for improved conditions and increased capacity within Swedish prisons. As challenges mount with criminal activities predominantly involving minors, the government's strategies continue to face scrutiny.