Who is Kaz Hamad and why was he arrested in Iraq?

Kaz Hamad is the alleged kingpin of Australia's illicit tobacco trade, arrested in Iraq at Australia's request due to his suspected criminal activities.

What did Kaz Hamad say before his arrest in Iraq?

Before his arrest, Hamad ranted about loyalty to his associates and denied involvement in a synagogue arson, calling informants 'rats'.

What crimes is Kaz Hamad suspected of in Australia?

Hamad is suspected of masterminding the illicit tobacco trade, orchestrating firebombings, and potentially ordering murders.

Home / Crime and Justice / Australia's Tobacco Kingpin Rants Before Iraq Arrest

Australia's Tobacco Kingpin Rants Before Iraq Arrest

19 Jan

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Summary

Alleged tobacco kingpin Kaz Hamad arrested in Iraq at Australia's request.
Hamad claims to pay $220,000 monthly to his associates in Australia.
He denied involvement in a recent synagogue arson attack.

Australia's Tobacco Kingpin Rants Before Iraq Arrest

Kaz Hamad, accused of orchestrating Australia's illicit tobacco market and linked to numerous fire bombings, was recently arrested in Iraq. Iraqi authorities apprehended him at Australia's request, signaling a major blow to Melbourne's criminal elements. Hamad, previously deported from Australia after serving time for serious offenses, was reportedly living in a secure compound.

Prior to his capture, Hamad engaged in a defiant rant, emphasizing his unwavering loyalty to his associates in Australia, whom he allegedly supports with substantial monthly payments. He also sought to distance himself from a recent synagogue arson, stating, "Whoever did this, it's not me." Hamad characterized informants as cowards afraid of prison.

Australian authorities identified Hamad as their "number one target." His arrest is considered a significant disruption to his alleged criminal enterprise. Police suspect Hamad is also responsible for other violent crimes, including the murder of Katie Tangey in a botched firebombing, and possibly rival assassinations.