01 May 2017 | 06:32 PM UTC
Sweden: Police investigating fire at Shi’ite mosque in Jakobsberg May 1
Police open arson investigation into April 30 fire at Sweden’s largest Shi’ite mosque located in Jakobsberg
Event
Police officials announced on Monday, May 1, that they are conducting an arson investigation regarding a fire that broke out the night before at a Shi’ite mosque in the Stockholm suburb of Jakobsberg. The fire started at the Imam Ali Islamic Center late at night on Sunday, April 30, and was eventually brought under control. The building suffered major damage and the surrounding area has been closed off; however, no casualties have been reported. According to police officials, it appears the fire was started outside of the building.
Context
Mosques in Sweden have been the target of multiple arson attacks in recent years. In 2016, a man was sentenced to three years in prison after setting fire to a mosque in Boras. Protests broke out in January 2015 after three mosques were deliberately set on fire across the country.
Advice
Individuals in Stockholm are advised to avoid the area and to follow any instructions issued by the local authorities.
