Sweden faces financial losses, security challenges amidst Koran burning controversy
By Muhammadu Sabiu
Sweden’s security agencies have reported a worsening security situation in the country, following the controversial decision to permit the burning of the Holy Quran.
This decision, made nine months ago, has not only drawn international criticism but has also cost the nation approximately $200,000, according to a recent report from a national media outlet.
The act of burning the Holy Quran, carried out by individuals including Danish politician Rasmus Paludan and Iraqi refugee Salwan Momika, has incurred significant financial repercussions.
Sweden has reportedly lost 2.2 million Swedish krona (equivalent to $199,300) due to these highly contentious actions, as confirmed by Sveriges Radio.
The controversial activities surrounding Quran burning have necessitated increased police presence and intervention to maintain security, as outlined in the report released by the radio station.
Instances of Quran Burning in Sweden
The burning of the Holy Quran has triggered global outrage and scrutiny, with both Sweden and Denmark facing criticism for permitting such actions and even providing police protection to those involved.
Rasmus Paludan, the leader of the far-right Stram Kurs party, has conducted Quran burnings in multiple Swedish cities, including Malmo, Norrkoping, Jonkoping, and Stockholm.
Notably, he burned copies of the Quran during Easter last year and, on June 21, staged a Quran burning outside the Turkish embassy in Sweden.
Salwan Momika garnered international attention when he burned the Quran outside a mosque in Stockholm during Eid.
On July 20, he threw the Quran outside the Iraqi embassy in Sweden, along with the Iraqi flag, and trampled them.
He also conducted a Quran burning outside the Swedish Parliament building on July 31.
Additionally, Bahrami Marjan, an Iranian refugee, engaged in Quran burning near Stockholm in early August.
Salwan Momika continued these acts, burning another Quran outside the Iranian Embassy in Sweden and another outside the Stockholm Mosque in subsequent weeks.
These actions have severely tarnished Sweden’s international reputation and placed additional pressure on its security forces.
Despite these challenges, the country’s authorities have allowed Momika to continue burning copies of the Holy Quran.