In brief
Norwegian teen Johannes Natland, 19, was charged with arranging a killing in Huddersfield for €25,000, allegedly with the Swedish Foxes gang. Police seized two firearms and 12 live rounds when he was arrested at a hotel shortly after arrival. While he admitted possession of weapons, he denied conspiratorial intent. Jurors were given instructions by Mr Justice Lavender but after 14 hours and 43 minutes of deliberation the jury could not agree on a verdict. Consequently the judge discharged the panel, and prosecutors plan to seek a retrial. Natland has been remanded in custody pending further proceedings.
A jury failed to reach a verdict in a case involving a Norwegian teenager who allegedly travelled to England to carry out a killing on behalf of an international crime gang backed by Iran.
Johannes Kongsnes Natland, 19, was accused of agreeing with the Swedish Foxes gang to shoot an unknown target for 25,000 euros (£21,500) in March last year.
Two days after arriving in the UK, armed police swooped to arrest him at a hotel in Huddersfield, West Yorkshire, and seized two guns and 12 live bullets.
Natland admitted possession of the firearms and ammunition but denied conspiracy to murder. Prosecutors said the Crown would seek a retrial and Natland was remanded into custody.
Jurors retired to deliberate on a verdict in the afternoon and were given a majority direction by Mr Justice Lavender earlier.
Following 14 hours and 43 minutes of retirement, the senior judge discharged the jury, concluding the case without a verdict.
