Tobacco Kingpin Kazem Hamad Held in Iraq: AFP Releases Images Amidst ‘Tobacco War’ Investigation
The Australian Federal Police have released images purportedly showing alleged tobacco kingpin Kazem “Kaz” Hamad in custody in Iraq, marking the first official confirmation of his whereabouts since his arrest in Baghdad in mid-January. The release of these images signals a continued focus on dismantling Hamad’s criminal syndicate, despite his incarceration.
Hamad’s Capture and Alleged Crimes
Iraqi authorities initially labeled Hamad, 41, as “one of the most dangerous wanted men in the world,” alleging his involvement in a wide range of serious crimes, including shootings, murders, kidnappings, violent assaults, extortion, and drug imports. The AFP’s release of the images comes as part of its ongoing investigation into the activities of Hamad, who is accused of instigating the so-called “tobacco war” that has gripped parts of Australia.
The images reveal a Hamad who appears significantly thinner than in previously circulated media from 2015. In one photograph, he is seen wearing a T-shirt and yellow prison garb, holding a sign in Arabic detailing his personal information and arrest details. While Iraqi authorities provided the images to the AFP, their authenticity remains unverified by this publication.
Questions of Authenticity and Image Analysis
Concerns have been raised regarding the authenticity of at least one of the images. One depicts Hamad standing in front of a height chart with numbers that appear out of sequence and scale, potentially suggesting a height of up to nine feet. Other discrepancies, including details related to Hamad’s hands and shirt neckline, have prompted speculation about possible digital alteration or the use of artificial intelligence.
However, the AFP has stated that it did not alter the image and is unaware of any modifications. The sign displayed in the image confirms Hamad, born in Nasiriya, Iraq, is being prosecuted on narcotic offenses. A second image shows Hamad standing against a plain white wall, also in yellow prison attire.
From Australia to Iraq: The Rise of the Hamad Syndicate
Hamad’s arrest follows his release from an Australian prison in July 2023 and subsequent deportation to Iraq. Since then, authorities suspect he and his associates have gained control over significant portions of the illicit tobacco market, reshaping Melbourne’s gangland landscape.
AFP Commissioner Krissy Barrett issued a direct warning to Hamad’s syndicate, known by various names including the 313s, Kaz’s Boys, and the Iraqis. “I want every offender connected to Hamad or his syndicate to look long and hard at this photo,” Barrett stated. “And I want to be very clear – just because Hamad is in custody, the AFP’s job is not done.”
Operation Carmen and Taskforce Lunar: A Multi-Agency Response
Hamad is now the focus of Operation Carmen, a special investigative taskforce established by the AFP. This follows a two-year investigation by Victoria Police, known as Taskforce Lunar, initiated shortly after Hamad’s release from prison. Taskforce Lunar was launched in response to a series of firebombings, two murders, and an attempted grave desecration allegedly linked to Hamad.
According to a Victoria Police intelligence report, “The Hamad syndicate are responsible for a significant number of serious offences, including arsons, extortions [and] shootings linked to the illicit tobacco trade as well as the importation and distribution of illicit tobacco.”
National Security Implications and International Cooperation
This marks the first time federal law enforcement has publicly named Hamad, despite previously identifying him as a national security threat during a Senate estimates hearing last year. The move followed intelligence linking Hamad to the firebombing of the Adass Israel synagogue in Ripponlea, Melbourne, in December 2024 – an attack believed to have been ordered by the Iranian government and carried out by Hamad’s operatives.
The AFP has confirmed that Hamad’s syndicate maintains a presence across five Australian states and one territory. The agency is actively supporting the Iraqi investigation, providing operational information related to crimes believed to have been committed or directed by Hamad or his syndicate within Australia. Federal investigators traveled to Iraq last week to offer further assistance and receive information from local authorities.
Syndicate Fracture and Future Operations
Barrett indicated that Hamad’s syndicate appears to be fracturing in the wake of his arrest, citing “a lack of leadership, infighting, and dysfunction.” The AFP has pledged to utilize all available resources to dismantle the syndicate and identify all individuals connected to the criminal enterprise.
Rumors circulating within the underworld suggest varying conditions of Hamad’s confinement, ranging from allegations of torture to claims of an impending release. The AFP maintains that the images were taken by Iraqi authorities with the permission of Iraq’s National Centre for International Judicial Co-operation.
Members of the public with information regarding Hamad or his syndicate are encouraged to contact the National Security Hotline at 1800 123 400.
