Kazem Hamad, also identified as Kadhim Malik Hamad Rabah al-Hajami, has been arrested in Iraq following an official request from Australian law enforcement authorities. Hamad, previously deported from Australia in July 2023, is a convicted drug trafficker facing allegations of international drug importation, smuggling, and involvement with prominent organized crime groups across Australia and the Middle East. Iraqi authorities described Hamad as "one of the most dangerous wanted men in the world."
Arrest Details
Confirmation of Hamad's detention came from Iraq’s National Center for International Judicial Cooperation, which posted a statement online. The arrest was carried out in coordination with the General Directorate of Narcotics and Psychotropic Substances Affairs at the Ministry of Interior, following approvals from the Supreme Judicial Council. Legal proceedings were initiated by the First Karkh Investigation Court, which specializes in drug cases.
Allegations and Background
Hamad is accused of importing significant quantities of drugs, including heroin, into both Iraq and Australia. Authorities allege his involvement with organized crime groups in Australia, particularly in Sydney, which are linked to serious offenses such as shootings, murders, kidnappings, violent assaults, extortion, and drug imports. Further allegations connect him to outlaw gangs operating with extensive influence in Australia and the Middle East, implicated in murders, shootings, money laundering, fraud, assaults, arson, and global drug trafficking.
Following his release from prison and deportation to Iraq in July 2023, Hamad and his syndicate are suspected by police intelligence reports of taking control of parts of the illicit tobacco market and influencing gangland activities in Melbourne. These reports link his syndicate to numerous offenses, including arsons, extortions, and shootings related to the illicit tobacco trade, its importation, and distribution. Police previously stated their belief that Hamad orchestrated firebombing attacks against rivals or Melbourne shop owners who resisted alleged extortion, with these fees becoming known as the "Kaz tax."
National Security Concerns
The Australian Federal Police (AFP) identified Hamad as a top "Australian priority organisation target." AFP Commissioner Krissy Barrett previously declared Hamad a national security threat due to his alleged involvement in the illicit tobacco industry, suspected links to violence, and alleged involvement in the December 2024 firebombing of the Adass Israel synagogue, with one source alleging this was on behalf of the Iranian government.
Extradition Uncertainty
It remains uncertain whether the Australian government will be able to extradite Hamad to Australia or if Iraqi authorities will retain custody. Hamad was previously regarded as difficult to apprehend in Iraq, reportedly operating from a fortified compound and maintaining suspected deep and influential ties to Iraqi security services, partly attributed to family connections and substantial wealth. An AFP spokesperson has indicated a statement regarding the matter will be released at a later time.