International Crime Boss Kazem Hamad Arrested in Baghdad, Iraq
en01.web.id – Baghdad.
Iraqi security authorities have arrested Kazem Hamad, an international crime figure long sought by law enforcement agencies, during a law-enforcement operation carried out in Baghdad, Iraq, on Wednesday (January 14, 2026). Hamad has been described by Iraqi officials as one of the world’s most dangerous wanted men due to his alleged role in transnational organized crime.
Kazem Hamad, also known as Kadhim Malik Hamad Rabah al-Hajami, is accused of leading a major criminal syndicate involved in large-scale drug trafficking, illicit tobacco trade, money laundering, and organized violence, including shootings and arson attacks. His criminal network has been linked primarily to Australia and the Middle East.
The arrest was conducted by Iraq’s National Centre for International Judicial Cooperation, in coordination with local security forces, following formal requests and intelligence sharing from Australian authorities, including the Australian Federal Police (AFP). Iraqi officials said Hamad had been under surveillance for some time due to suspicions that he continued to direct criminal operations from outside Australia.
Brigadier General Miqdad Miri, spokesperson for the Iraqi Ministry of Interior, confirmed the arrest in an official statement.
“The suspect is considered one of the most dangerous wanted individuals and is accused of involvement in large-scale international drug smuggling and organized criminal activities,” Miqdad Miri said.
Hamad’s name has been widely known in Australia in connection with violent disputes linked to the illegal tobacco market, which authorities say triggered a wave of shootings and firebombings targeting businesses and residential properties. Although he was deported from Australia in 2023, investigators believe he continued to exert control over criminal networks from abroad.
Reacting to the arrest, Australian Minister for Home Affairs Tony Burke said the operation demonstrated the effectiveness of international cooperation against organized crime.
“This arrest sends a clear message that individuals involved in serious organized crime cannot escape justice simply by crossing borders,” Tony Burke said in an official statement.
Following his arrest, Kazem Hamad is currently being held at an Iraqi government detention facility in Baghdad, where he is undergoing further questioning and legal processing. Iraqi authorities stated that he is being detained in accordance with national law and that investigations are ongoing to trace his criminal networks and assets.
Authorities in Iraq and Australia said discussions are continuing regarding possible next legal steps, including extradition, though any such process would depend on Iraqi law and applicable international agreements. Officials emphasized that Hamad remains a suspect and is entitled to due process until a court issues a final ruling.
(rd/ks/jk)
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