Swedish-Born 18-Year-Old Charged Over IS Knife Plot - Cannot Be Deported

SWEDEN - An 18-year-old born in Sweden is charged with preparing an Islamic State terror attack on a high school in Halmstad. Prosecutors say he planned a knife attack on Sturegymnasiet intended to kill or seriously injure people, and that he also took part in a terrorist organisation and publicly urged terrorism.

The Swedish Security Service (Säpo) moved against him in the spring after a longer surveillance operation. Court filings say the suspected acts ran from July 2025 and were centred on the Halmstad area.

Because he was born in Sweden and holds Swedish citizenship, he cannot be deported if convicted. His parents emigrated from Damascus under Bashar al-Assad's rule.

Allegiance to Islamic State

According to filings from Halmstad District Court, the 18-year-old placed himself under Islamic State command. He first stated an intent to swear allegiance to the group and its leader, then did so.

Prosecutors also say he collected and produced IS propaganda and spread it online. Deputy chief prosecutor Henrik Olin of the national security prosecution unit has described the case as violent Islamism.

The intended target named in the indictment is Sturegymnasiet in Halmstad. The alleged plan was to carry out a knife attack at the school in Islamic State's name.

Säpo and Europol to testify

Olin said the information gathered by the Swedish Security Service was serious enough to justify the raid. No further suspect is named in the case so far. The investigation also involved international police and security cooperation.

Analysts from both the Swedish Security Service and Europol are set to testify about the digital material, the defendant's ideological commitment, and the claim that he submitted to Islamic State leadership.

He has been held on remand with restrictions since the spring. Prosecutors argue there is a risk he would abscond or obstruct the inquiry. He has no prior criminal record.

Lawyer: admits two charges, denies plot

Defence lawyer Maria Powers has said he admits participation in a terrorist organisation and public incitement to terrorism, but denies preparation of a terrorist crime.

If convicted, he still cannot be expelled from Sweden. He is a Swedish citizen, born in the country.