Sweden is reeling from the shocking news of the death of a diplomat, who had recently been questioned by authorities under suspicion of espionage. Foreign Minister Maria Malmer Stenergard expressed deep sorrow on behalf of her colleagues, stating that the revelation has cast a pall over the foreign ministry.
The diplomat, identified as a high-ranking official, was apprehended by Sweden’s Säpo intelligence agency on Sunday and subsequently released on Wednesday. He had consistently denied any wrongdoing, although the prosecutors indicated he remained under investigation.
Official reactions and statements
In her statement, Malmer Stenergard extended her condolences to the family, friends, and colleagues of the deceased, highlighting the difficult circumstances surrounding this tragic event. She refrained from providing further details about the case, emphasizing the sensitivity of the situation. Meanwhile, authorities confirmed that there were no suspicious circumstances surrounding the diplomat’s death.
“I have ensured his formal report about abuse during the arrest has arrived to the special investigations unit. An investigation has started regarding this,” stated the diplomat’s lawyer, Anton Strand.
Former Foreign Minister Carl Bildt remembered the “tragically deceased ambassador” as an exceptionally talented and competent individual who had served in various capacities within the foreign ministry. Reports from Swedish media suggested that he had spent significant time stationed outside of Europe, with his most recent position as an ambassador.
Details surrounding the investigation
Images aired on Swedish television revealed that the diplomat’s apartment door had been forcibly opened at the time of his arrest. It has been reported that he sought medical treatment for injuries sustained during the incident and filed a complaint alleging excessive force was used. Säpo maintained that the arrest had been conducted peacefully.
Strand also mentioned that he was made aware of his client’s death early on Friday, and his thoughts are with the diplomat’s family during this difficult time. The ongoing investigation into suspected espionage remains incomplete, as highlighted by Prosecutor Per Lindqvist, who expressed his regret regarding the diplomat’s passing.
Unverified reports from public broadcaster SVT have linked the case to the recent resignation of Tobias Thyberg, the newly appointed national security adviser, who stepped down just hours after assuming his role. This unexpected resignation occurred shortly after sensitive images of him were sent anonymously via the dating app Grindr.
As the investigation continues, more details may emerge, shedding light on the circumstances surrounding both the diplomat’s death and the broader implications for Sweden’s security apparatus.