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Young Footballer Accused of £20k Hitman Plot
4 Jun
Summary
- Teenager allegedly travelled to the UK for a murder-for-hire.
- He was found with two guns and live ammunition.
- The suspect allegedly mentioned a Swedish crime group called Foxtrot.
A 19-year-old Norwegian footballer, Johannes Kongsnes Natland, is facing trial at the Old Bailey, accused of travelling to the UK to act as a hitman. He allegedly arrived at Manchester Airport on March 17, 2025, intending to carry out a paid assassination for the Foxtrot Network, a Swedish organised crime group linked to the Iranian regime.
Authorities arrested Natland at a hotel in Huddersfield, West Yorkshire, two days after his arrival. During the arrest, officers discovered a semi-automatic pistol, a revolver, and 12 rounds of live ammunition. Natland has admitted to possessing these items. The court heard testimony from a former schoolfriend who recounted a conversation on March 15, 2025, where Natland allegedly asked about "the foxes" and stated his intention to make significant money with a death.
Another former teammate also testified, recalling Natland saying, "Someone will die tonight, you know the Swedish Foxes." Natland's on-off girlfriend also reported receiving messages from him about a "crazy mission" and having "wild information to share." The prosecution alleges these statements indicate his involvement in a conspiracy to murder. Natland denies conspiracy to murder but has pleaded guilty to possessing the firearms and ammunition. The trial is ongoing.
