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Exiled Crime Kingpin Kazem Hamad Arrested in Iraq

1/14/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Kazem Hamad, an exiled underworld kingpin, was arrested in Iraq after a request from Australia.
The 41-year-old is described by Australian authorities as among the world's most dangerous.
He is linked to organized crime in Iraq and Australia, including drug trafficking, extortion, tobacco-related arsons, and a firebombing tied to Iranian government.
Australian authorities say he was deported after serving eight years for drug offenses and remains influential in Melbourne's underworld.

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Story summary

Kazem Hamad, an exiled underworld kingpin, was arrested in Iraq after a request from Australia.
The 41-year-old is described by Australian authorities as among the world's most dangerous.
He is linked to organized crime in Iraq and Australia, including drug trafficking, extortion, tobacco-related arsons, and a firebombing tied to Iranian government.
Australian authorities say he was deported after serving eight years for drug offenses and remains influential in Melbourne's underworld.