The men, who were discovered in a burned out car in Malmo on 14 July have now been formally identified as Farooq Abdulrazak, 37, and Juan Cifuentes, 33, co-owners of Empire Holidays in north London.
In a statement issued via the Metropolitan Police, the families 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.
“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.”
The statement continued with a tribute to Juan Cifuentes. It said: “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.”
The bodies of the two men, who had been shot, were found in a burned out Toyota Rav4 on the outskirts of Malmo. The car is believed to have been rented at an airport in Denmark.
Detective chief inspector Sarah Lee, from the homicide team in the Met’s Specialist Crime Command, added: “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.”
