Sweden instructs protester who burned the Quran to depart; deportation temporarily postponed.
Swedish authorities have revoked the residency permit of an Iraqi individual who publicly desecrated the Quran on multiple occasions this year.
However, according to AP, the country has temporarily suspended his deportation, citing concerns that his life would be at risk if he were to be returned to Iraq.
The decision by the Swedish Migration Agency was made after discovering that Salwan Momika had provided false information in his asylum application.
A Migration Agency official mentioned that although a deportation order was issued, it has been put on hold for security reasons. According to reports from Swedish media, Momika was granted a residence permit in 2021.
The decision was rendered yesterday, signifying the nullification of this individual's status and residence permit, leading to deportation.
agency spokesman Jesper Tengroth
However, Tengroth voiced apprehensions that this individual could face torture and inhumane treatment upon returning to their home country. Consequently, Sweden has acknowledged an impediment to executing the deportation, as reported by AP.
Monika stirred controversy in Sweden and internationally through anti-Islam protests where he burned or disrespected the Muslim holy book. While Swedish authorities allowed these demonstrations under the banner of freedom of speech, his actions raised concerns among the government and security officials, who cautioned that they might make Sweden a target for terrorists.
In August of this year, Sweden's Prime Minister, Ulf Kristersson, announced plans to tighten border controls due to security concerns arising from Quran burnings. He emphasized the intention to expand electronic border surveillance and highlighted ongoing communication with Swedish intelligence services, underscoring the seriousness of the situation.
Kristersson also stressed Sweden's commitment to preventing individuals with weak connections to the state from entering. Recent government announcements revealed a reduction in benefits for immigrants from non-European Union countries, aiming to deter their migration. Additionally, Sweden plans to introduce reforms requiring individuals from non-EU territories to learn Swedish and compete for jobs in the country's highly skilled labor market.
Authorities in Sweden have heightened efforts to curb the influx of individuals attempting to enter the country irregularly.