Gay Swedish politician held at knife point at home in hate-crime attack

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An out gay politician in Sweden has been attacked in his home by a knife wielding masked person.

Police are treating the attack against 21-year-old Alexander Bengtsson as what they believe to be a hate crime.

The attack took place as Bengtsson’s front door rang on Wednesday night shortly after midnight.

Alexander Bengtsson

As he was pushed to the ground by the masked perpetrator, Bengtsson said he felt he was scratched by a sharp object he believes to be a knife.

He was treated in hospital for superficial injuries and was released later on Wednesday.

Speaking to Swedish QX magazine, he said: “Everything is okay, but I can’t talk about it right now.”

Police are reportedly investigating whether the attacks might be linked to past events.

They currently do not know who the suspect is and are appealing for witnesses, or those who may have information.