A 19‑year‑old Norwegian named Johannes Natland flew from Stavanger to Huddersfield in March 2023 , carrying two firearms and 12 rounds of live ammunition, in an attempt to appear as a hitman for an Iran‑backed gang. According to the court hearing, he later admitted he had no intention of carrying out the murder and claimed he was merely seeking approval from his girlfriend.

Stavanger Teen’s Flight to Huddersfield: A 12‑Hour Mission

Johannes Natland, 18 at the time, departed Stavanger on March 17, 2023, arriving in Huddersfield two days later where he was arrested in a hotel room. Police seized a semi‑automatic pistol, a revolver, 12 rounds of live ammunition, and £2,000 in cash. the court heard that Natland had no idea who the target would be, a fact that surprised the prosecution.

Iran‑Backed Foxtrot Network’s £20,000 Offer

The Swedish Foxtrot Network, an organised crime group sanctioned by the US and UK and backed by the Iranian regime, allegedly promised Natland more than £20,000 for the hit . According to the court, Natland was unaware of the target’s identity and expressed disbelief at the idea of actually killing someone.

Social Media, Drugs and the ‘Cool Guy’ Persona

Natland’s ex‑girlfriend, Sara Solbi, received texts in which he bragged about a “crazy mission” and sent a photo of himself holding a gun while wearing protective gloves. The messages, shown to the jury, suggested he wanted her to think he was a dangerous, cool figure. Both had struggled with drug abuse during adolescence, a detail the court noted.

Who Is the Unnamed Target?

One of the key unanswered questions is the identity of the intended victim. Natland admitted he did not know who the target was and claimed he would not have carried out the murder even if he had. The prosecution’s case hinges on whether his possession of firearms and ammunition constitutes a conspiracy to murder, despite his denial.

What Happens Next in the Trial?

The trial continues with Natland admitting possession of the firearms but denying conspiracy to murder. Prosecutor Alistair Richardson questioned the seriousness of the case, to which Natland replied that he was not a threat to anyone. The court will decide whether his actions meet the threshold for a murder conspiracy charge.

According to the court, Natland’s claim that he would sabotage the mission by shooting himself in the foot was an attempt to distance himself from the alleged crime.. The case illustrates how international crime networks can exploit vulnerable youth seeking status.