24-Year-Old Suspect Arrested in Absentia for Salwan Momika Murder; Swedish Police Crack Down on Gang Leaders Abroad

A 24-year-old man has been arrested in absentia on suspicion of murdering Salwan Momika, a controversial figure known for burning the Quran, in a meticulously planned attack in Södertälje on January 29, 2025. The suspect allegedly gained access to the apartment building's roof via a service hatch, confronted Momika on his balcony, and shot him multiple times before fleeing on a stolen bicycle. The shooting, which was captured live on TikTok by Momika himself, has served as key evidence in the investigation. Prosecutor Rasmus Öman stated that the suspect is believed to have fled abroad, with conflicting reports placing him either in Syria or Iran. The suspect has a criminal record and was not among the five individuals initially arrested and later cleared of involvement. An international arrest warrant is set to be issued as the investigation continues.

In parallel, Swedish authorities celebrated the arrest and return of gang leader Mikael 'Greken' Tenezos, leader of the Dalennätverket gang, who was apprehended in Mexico and flown back to Sweden. Despite this success, police acknowledge that hundreds of Swedish gang criminals remain abroad, including notorious figures like Rawa Majid and Ismail Abdo. Police efforts this year have led to the arrest of 180 gang members internationally, with 30 to 40 considered "priority actors." Authorities emphasize the importance of international cooperation and pressure from both law enforcement and political spheres to dismantle these organized crime networks that operate across borders.

Law enforcement officials, including Hanna Paradis from the National Operations Department, have stressed that hiding will no longer be an option for influential gang members. This crackdown is seen as a concerted response to the increasing gang-related violence in Sweden, highlighted by high-profile cases such as Momika’s murder and the ongoing pursuit of criminal leaders abroad.