Sweden shaken by death of diplomat under espionage investigation

A high-ranking Swedish diplomat who was recently questioned on spying allegations has died, shocking the country.

The diplomat was arrested by Sweden’s Säpo intelligence service last Sunday and released Wednesday, though prosecutors said he remained a suspect. He denied any wrongdoing.

Foreign Minister Maria Malmer Stenergard expressed sorrow and said it has been a difficult day but gave no further details. Police reported no suspicious circumstances in the death.

Former foreign minister Carl Bildt praised the diplomat’s skill and experience. Reports say he spent many years abroad, most recently as an ambassador. His lawyer declined to confirm his official role.

During the arrest, the diplomat’s apartment door was forcibly opened. He later sought medical care for injuries and filed a complaint claiming excessive force, which is now under investigation.

Unconfirmed reports link the case to the abrupt resignation of Sweden’s new national security adviser, Tobias Thyberg, who stepped down after private photos appeared online.

The prosecutor said the death is “very regrettable” and the espionage probe is ongoing. The diplomat, in his 50s, had recently returned to Stockholm after a long overseas posting.

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