(Melbourne, January 14, 2026) — Australian authorities have arrested Kazem Hamad, a long-sought gangland figure linked to Victoria’s tobacco wars, in Iraq, according to multiple reports.
The arrest of Hamad, who had evaded capture for years, marks a significant development in efforts to dismantle organized crime networks operating in Australia.
- Kazem Hamad, an exiled gangland boss, has been arrested in Iraq.
- Hamad is linked to large-scale tobacco smuggling operations in Victoria, Australia.
- Authorities believe Hamad had been attempting to evade capture for an extended period.
- The Australian Federal Police (AFP) were involved in the operation leading to his arrest.
Arrest in Iraq
Hamad was arrested in Iraq, the Australian Federal Police confirmed, as reported by the Brisbane Times. He is accused of being a key figure in the illicit tobacco trade in Victoria, Australia, according to The Guardian. Authorities had been pursuing Hamad for some time, believing he had fled Australia to avoid prosecution.
‘Untouchable’ Kingpin
Hamad was described as an “untouchable” kingpin by sources cited in The Age, who suggested he believed he was beyond the reach of law enforcement. The Australian Broadcasting Corporation reported that sources indicated Hamad thought he was “out of reach.”
Manhunt Details
Details surrounding the manhunt and Hamad’s eventual capture remain limited, but The Australian reported that the operation involved international cooperation. The AFP has not released specific details about the circumstances of the arrest, citing ongoing investigations.
Tobacco Wars Link
Hamad’s alleged involvement in the tobacco wars in Victoria centers around large-scale smuggling and the illegal distribution of tobacco products, as detailed by The Guardian. The AFP boss stated that Hamad’s arrest is a significant blow to these criminal operations.
Time.news based this report in part on reporting by The Australian, Australian Broadcasting Corporation, The Age, The Guardian, and Brisbane Times and added independent analysis and context.
