A Norwegian teenager flew to the UK to carry out a murder on behalf of a Swedish organised crime group with links to the Iranian regime, a court has heard.
Johannes Natland, 19, was arrested at Heathrow Airport last month on suspicion of plotting to kill an unknown target. The prosecution alleges he was recruited by the Foxtrot Network, a Sweden-based criminal organisation that has been used by Iran for operations in Europe.
“A 19-year-old Norwegian allegedly flew to the UK to carry out a murder for the Sweden-based Foxtrot Network, a gang with links to the Iranian regime, a court has heard.”
Prosecutor Tom Little KC told Southwark Crown Court that Natland was "prepared to kill" and had travelled to the UK specifically to undertake a shooting. The court heard that social media exchanges showed Natland was initially seeking work before being offered £21,600 for the job.
Police intercepted Natland at Heathrow on 1 February, and he has been in custody since. The Crown says the teenager had a clear intention to murder someone on behalf of the network, though the intended target remains unknown.
The Foxtrot Network has been linked to violent crimes across Scandinavia and is believed to have been engaged by the Iranian regime to carry out attacks on foreign soil. The case highlights the growing reach of international organised crime into the UK.
No plea was entered during the brief hearing, and the case was adjourned until 23 May. Natland was remanded in custody.
While the threat is directed at specific targets, the case underscores the ability of foreign gangs to operate in the UK. Law enforcement agencies have increasingly warned about the use of hitmen recruited online, particularly from younger individuals in Nordic countries.
What This Means For You The case does not indicate a direct threat to the general public, as the intended victim was a specific individual. However, it shows that organised crime networks with international links are seeking to use the UK as a location for violent acts. Police and border forces remain vigilant, and the public should report any suspicious activity. For most people, daily life is unaffected, but the case serves as a reminder of the global nature of modern criminal enterprises.