Juan Cifuentes, 33, had travelled to Denmark alongside Farooq Abdulrazak, 37, for a business trip, but failed to return home as expected on Sunday, July 14. On the same day, two bodies were found inside a burning car in an industrial area in the Swedish city of Malmo, with emergency workers making the grim discovery when they extinguished the flames. The Met Police have now confirmed the death of both men, issuing a statement on behalf of the families.
"With deep sorrow, we announce the passing of a beloved father, son, brother, and friend," the tribute read. "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 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. "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." Detective Chief Inspector Sarah Lee, from the homicide team in the Met’s Specialist Crime Command, said: "We are supporting our colleagues in Sweden as they investigate this incredibly tragic and complex incident. "Juan and Farooq’s families are suffering profoundly and we sincerely hope they are provided with much needed answers to the many questions they have about what happened to their loved ones.
"Police in Sweden continue to follow a number of lines of enquiry, we understand that no arrests have been made at this time. "If you have information that can help, please contact us via 101, or anonymously via Crimestoppers.".
