Travel agency partners confirmed as men found dead in car in Sweden

A travel agency’s business partners have been confirmed as British nationals found dead in a burned-out car in Sweden.

Farooq Abdulrazak and Juan Cifuentes, both from north London, were reported missing after they failed to return home from a business trip.

Their bodies were found in the shell of a Toyota in Malmo on July 14.

They co-owned travel agency Empire Holidays in Muswell Hill.

The Metropolitan Police issued a statement on Wednesday saying that detectives supporting Swedish authorities confirmed that the two men found deceased have now been formally identified.

Detective Chief Inspector Sarah Lee 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.”

Statements released by the Met Police on behalf of the two men’s families said they were “severely devastated” to lose “two beautiful, innocent, hardworking souls”.

The deaths had “impacted our local community deeply,” they added.

Abdulrazak’s family described him as “a beautiful, selfless, humble soul” who was always willing to help others and “a huge pillar in our family and community” who brought people of all ages together.

Cifuentes was “a pillar of strength and compassion”, his family said.

“His legacy lives on in his children, who embody the love and values he instilled in them,” they added. “A brilliant footballer and hardworking man, he united people from all walks of life, leaving a lasting impact on everyone he met.”

Empire Holidays announced on Instagram on July 18: “It is very difficult to say this, but it is with a heavy heart that we inform you that the owner of Empire Holidays (Farooq) has sadly passed away.”

The post added: “Please keep Farooq and Juan in your duas and may they reach the highest level of Jannah. Ameen.”