18-Year-Old Confesses to Planning Terror Attack at Stockholm's Kulturfestival

An 18-year-old man stands accused of orchestrating a terrorist attack aimed at Stockholm's Kulturfestival, which took place in August 2024. In a Stockholm District Court, the defendant admitted to all charges, including preparing terrorist acts, bomb-making, and participation in the Islamic State (IS) terrorist organization. His lawyer, Johan Åkermark, confirmed the confession during court proceedings largely held behind closed doors due to the sensitive nature of the case.

The prosecution detailed that between August 2024 and February 2025, the accused engaged in preparations to carry out an attack using weapons and explosives at Kungsträdgården, where the Kulturfestival was held. Prosecutor Carl Mellberg emphasized the intent was to sow fear among the Swedish population not aligned with IS ideology. Evidence presented heavily features discussions with an undercover police officer who infiltrated the suspect's plans, with additional inputs from a Säpo infiltrator involved in the investigation.

The accused attempted to acquire weapons and received instructions on making and assembling functional bombs, signaling a serious threat. Moreover, a psychological evaluation suggests the accused may suffer from a severe mental disorder. Since his arrest in February 2025, he has been held in custody.

Alongside him, a 17-year-old boy faces separate charges related to a murder plot in Germany. The older defendant denies involvement in that crime, focusing solely on the terrorist charges linked to the Stockholm plot.

This case highlights the Swedish authorities' proactive use of undercover operations and mental health evaluations in terrorism investigations, reflecting broader efforts to safeguard public events and counter radicalization within the country.