The families of two men found dead in a burned-out car in Sweden have paid tribute to “two beautiful innocent hardworking souls”.

Juan Cifuentes, 33, and Farooq Abdulrazak, 37, from north London, were reported missing by family members after they failed to return home from a business trip to Scandinavia in July.

Their families issued a plea for information before the Metropolitan Police confirmed on Wednesday that Mr Cifuentes and Mr Abdulrazak were formally identified as the two people whose bodies were found in a car in an industrial area of Malmo on Sunday 14 July.

Mr Abdulrazak’s family 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.

Malmo incident
Juan Cifuentes, 33, from north London, was named by police as one of two men whose bodies were discovered in a burned-out car in Sweden (Family handout/PA)

“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 brought laughter and light upon everyone.”

Swedish police said the victims were shot, with the Toyota Rav4 they were travelling in set on fire in an industrial area of the city in southern Sweden.

According to Swedish national newspaper Aftonbladet, the car had been rented at Copenhagen airport, in Denmark, before the driver and the passenger travelled across the border into Sweden and to Malmo.

Mr Cifuentes’s family 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.”

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.”

The police added that no arrests have been made at this time and have asked anyone who knows anything about the incident to call 101 or contact Crimestoppers.