The alleged ringleader of Melbourne‘s criminal tobacco war has been arrested and charged as police continue to unravel the local chapter of an alleged global crime network.
Majid Alibadi, 25, is allegedly responsible for overseeing the firebombing of multiple businesses and residential properties as part of the ongoing conflict between Middle Eastern crime groups.
Alibadi was arrested alongside two others yesterday with police claiming the trio are linked to a global crime syndicate.
Detectives believe Alibadi was responsible for organising multiple arson attacks on businesses last year, including a fire at a smash repair business in Williamstown North, a fire at a tobacco store in Glenroy, two fires at a Docklands restaurant, a fire at a reception centre in Tullamarine and a fire at another Docklands restaurant.
The incidents happened between October and December.
Detective Inspector Graham Banks said police believed the man was one of the ringleaders of the local syndicates, but was being directed by a crime leader from overseas.
Police said Alibadi, from Epping, is allegedly involved in the global syndicate responsible for the arson attacks.
It’s believed the war is between two Middle Eastern crime gangs who are battling to control the illegal vape and tobacco market.
Alibadi faced court today charged with four counts of arson and extortion.
Meanwhile a 48-year-old Thomastown man was charged with firearms offences, and handling stolen goods.
A 40-year-old Campbellfield man was questioned but later released.
During a raid that culminated in the arrests, nearly $1.6 million worth of contraband was seized.
While the arrest will disrupt the local market, Banks said the illusive market would not be dismantled.
“This particular syndicate is a worldwide network that relates to a massive market worth millions of dollars,” Banks said.
“There’s nothing that will stop this person from trying to control that market, but it will disrupt his particular business for some time.”
