Teenager linked to violent crime after posting images of weapons and drugs

A 17-year-old Norwegian boy, referred to as “Lars,” is under investigation for serious violent crime after sharing images of automatic weapons, large quantities of drugs, and emojis suggesting ties to the Foxtrot criminal network, Dagbladet reports.

The anonymous Instagram account, which has since been deleted, featured photos of multiple firearms—including a modified assault rifle with its serial number removed—alongside cash, drugs, and a fox emoji, a symbol associated with Foxtrot, one of Scandinavia’s most dangerous criminal groups. Some images were edited with heart-eye emojis before posting.

Disappearing evidence
The account was removed shortly after a Dagbladet journalist left a comment under one of the posts. Despite its deletion, investigators linked the profile to “Lars,” who turned 17 this year. Several of the most extreme images were uploaded when he was even younger.

Police in Kristiansand now allege that “Lars” was recruited for a violent assignment. Alongside another teenager, he has been charged with “conspiracy to cause significant bodily harm,” a serious violent crime offense, according to a detention order from Agder District Court. Police have declined to comment on the case, citing the ongoing investigation.

Connections to broader criminal network
Dagbladet’s investigation reveals that “Lars” is connected to a group of 13 young men in Stavanger, all linked to drug use and criminal activity. Several of these individuals have ties to an ongoing Foxtrot-related trial in Sandnes, where a 16-year-old stands accused of attempted murder, conspiracy to commit murder, and involvement in killings across Norway, Sweden, and England.

The revelations have prompted political reactions, with former Health Minister Bent Høie acknowledging criticism of pandemic-era measures affecting youth. “Lars” is represented by defense attorney Nils Anders Grønås, who declined to comment due to the case’s confidentiality restrictions.