Kazem Hamad reportedly arrested in Iraq on behalf of Australian authorities

An exiled underworld figure linked to Victoria’s tobacco wars, Kazem “Kaz” Hamad, has reportedly been arrested in Iraq on behalf of Australian law enforcement for alleged drug trafficking, according to a statement from Iraq’s National Centre for International Judicial Cooperation.

The Iraqi statement, which referred to him as "Kadhim Malik Hamad Rabah al-Hajami", said the arrest was carried out in coordination with the General Directorate of Narcotics and Psychotropic Substances Affairs and after approvals from the Supreme Judicial Council. It said proceedings were initiated by the First Karkh Investigation Court, which specialises in drug cases, and described the accused as "one of the most dangerous wanted men in the world".

The statement alleges Hamad is responsible for "importing large quantities of drugs into Iraq and Australia, as well as smuggling heroin" and is involved with "the most prominent organised crime gangs in Australia – Sydney, responsible for shootings, murders, kidnappings, violent assaults, extortion, and drug imports." Iraqi authorities also allege involvement with outlaw gangs that carry out killings, money laundering, fraud, arson and drug trafficking across regions.

Key Topics

World, Kazem Hamad, Iraq, Australia, Australian Federal Police, Krissy Barrett