Norway’s 19‑year‑old, Johannes Kongsnes Natland, shocked the courtroom over a‑murder claim. He was accused of planning a hit for a gang tied to Iran, and the case landed in a UK court for a big‑ball moonshot.
Prosecutors say Natland met the Swedish Foxes gang in March last year and agreed to shoot a target for 25,000 euros (about £21,500). He later crossed the border to England to prepare the job.
Two days after arriving in Huddersfield, police raided his hotel room. They seized two firearms and 12 live bullets. Natland admitted the weapons but denied planning a murder.
The jury deliberated for almost 15 hours – 14 hours 43 minutes – but couldn’t agree on a verdict. Judge Lavender explained the panel needed a majority decision, which the jurors couldn’t reach.
The judge discharged the jury, and authorities plan a retrial. Natland remains in custody. The case shows how tough it can be when evidence crosses borders and juries must crack complex crimes.
