'Broken in ways words cannot describe': Families of Brits found dead in burned-out car in Sweden speak out following deaths
14 August 2024, 14:32 | Updated: 14 August 2024, 16:13
The bodies of two men found 'shot dead' in a burnt out vehicle in Sweden are those of a missing British pair, Swedish authorities have confirmed.
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Father-of-two Juan Cifuentes, 33, and his friend Farooq Abdulrazak, 37, from north London, went missing in July after failing to return from a business trip to Scandinavia.
Now, Swedish prosecutors have confirmed the remains discovered inside the burnt out vehicle are those belonging to the two missing Brits.
Newly-wed Mr Abdulrazak had travelled to Denmark and Sweden with Mr Cifuentes for business.
Empire Holidays, the friends’ joint travel company, has confirmed that Mr Abdulrazak has “sadly passed away”.
Now, their families have spoken of their loss, explaining they are "broken in many ways words cannot describe. We have lost two beautiful innocent hardworking souls."
It comes as authorities in Sweden confirmed that no one has yet been arrested in connection with the deaths.
The burnt-out car was found at around 2pm local time on 7 July, with suspicions raised over whether the pair may have been murdered as part of a gangland war.
Initial reports from local media suggest the vehicle was discovered on a dirt road close to an industrial area close to the south of Malmo, Sweden.
The victims inside the vehicle are said to have been shot, according to Swedish authorities.
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In July it was confirmed that the Britons had rented a car - a Toyota Rav 4 - at Copenhagen Airport in the hours before the remains were found.
Releasing a statement on the family's behalf, the Met said: "It is with great sorrow and a heavy heart we announce the passing of our dearest son, heart-warming brother, loving husband, bestest uncle and dearest friend, Farooq Abdulrazak.
“We are sincerely devastated, broken in many ways words cannot describe. We have lost two beautiful innocent hardworking souls.
"Our loss has not only shattered our family and friends but has also impacted our local community deeply.“Farooq is a beautiful, selfless, humble soul, someone always willing to help others.
"A huge pillar in our family and community, he is our sunshine who spread his positivity and brightness wherever he went. He brought people of all ages together and will be sorely missed by everyone.
Adding: “There was never a day that goes by where he didn’t help someone through a kind act, generous words, support with a good cause or being hospitable.
"He is an amazing son, husband, brother, uncle and friend who provided security, comfort, and love, and always bought laughter and light upon everyone.”
“With deep sorrow, we announce the passing of a beloved father, son, brother, and friend. Juan was a devout Muslim, he was a pillar of strength and compassion, always present for those in need, regardless of their faith.
"His legacy lives on in his children, who embody the love and values he instilled in them.
“A brilliant footballer and hardworking man, he united people from all walks of life, leaving a lasting impact on everyone he met. His memory will forever inspire us.
“We ask for your prayers and support but also space for his family during this difficult time. May he rest in peace.”
It follows the girlfriend of a missing London travel agent whose body is believed to have been in the burnt-out vehicle as “a phenomenal human being”.
Born in Colombia, Mr Cifuentes, played football with Hertfordshire non-league side Welwyn Garden City FC.
A club spokesperson said at the time: “Juan was part of our double-winning squad in 2014-15. A very good player and great person.”
