Suspect Sought in Absentia for Salwan Momika Murder After Nine-Month Investigation

The Swedish authorities have requested the arrest in absentia of a 24-year-old Syrian man suspected of the murder of Salwan Momika, marking a significant breakthrough in the investigation nearly nine months after the crime. Momika was fatally shot three times on January 29, 2025, during a live social media broadcast in an apartment in Hovsjö, Södertälje. Known for publicly burning the Koran, he was a controversial figure.

Initially, five suspects were detained but released without charges, which raised worries about the investigation potentially stalling. However, prosecutor Rasmus Öman announced that extensive technical investigations, including surveillance footage analysis, provided clarity on the events leading up to the murder. The suspect is believed to have fled to Iran following the shooting. Öman refrained from revealing further details about the suspect or his precise location.

The murder is assessed as premeditated and caused significant suffering to the victim, according to court documents. Legal representative Anna Roth described the decision to seek arrest as a positive result of thorough investigative work. Meanwhile, a woman claiming to be Momika's girlfriend expressed frustration over the case's slow progress and insufficient communication from authorities.

Family members have voiced relief at the latest development, highlighting the emotional toll the prolonged investigation has had. This milestone renews hope for eventual resolution and justice for the high-profile case that shocked the community and sparked intense public interest.