Australian authorities have launched an investigation into possible links between domestic individuals and the Omani co-pilot accused of attempting a deadly attack on an Israel-bound flight. Hamam al-Hammami, who allegedly tried to carry out a 9/11-style hijacking involving 174 passengers, reportedly revealed in a confession to Emirati authorities that his radicalisation began during his time studying in Melbourne in 2017.
The Australian Federal Police (AFP) have confirmed they are examining any connections between Al-Hammami and individuals associated with the MyCentre organisation, a Muslim community centre in Melbourne’s northern suburbs managed by Samir “Abu Hamza” Mohtadi. While it has not been suggested that Mohtadi had any knowledge of Al-Hammami’s alleged plans or involvement, the accused reportedly stated that he became acquainted with people connected to MyCentre, which has been linked to radical elements in some reports.
Al-Hammami’s confession, as disclosed by Emirati Attorney-General Hamad Saif al Shamsi, included references to attending a mosque affiliated with RMIT University, where he met individuals connected to MyCentre. The centre itself is said to be overseen by Mohtadi, who has previously drawn national attention for sermons critical of Israel, including inflammatory language directed against the Israeli state and its supporters. Mohtadi and his organisation have been expanding their footprint in Melbourne, including the recent acquisition of land worth more than A$11 million in Broadmeadows to develop the MyCollege high school. Funding for these purchases reportedly came from interest-free loans within the Australian Muslim community, supported by several prominent Islamic leaders.
Despite the focus on potential radical influences, Mohtadi has not responded publicly to questions about the latest revelations. A spokesperson from MyCentre expressed unawareness of the connections cited in Al-Hammami’s confession. RMIT University confirmed it hosted a youth conference on September 12 involving individuals linked to MyCentre but did not comment on whether Al-Hammami regularly attended any affiliated mosque, noting that the university itself does not maintain a dedicated mosque.
Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke emphasized the government’s commitment to countering Islamist radicalisation, both at the border and online, asserting that Australia possesses its toughest laws to address such threats. He highlighted the importance of using all available measures to prevent individuals from causing harm within the community.
Security experts and officials have noted that Al-Hammami’s choice of an aviation career appeared deliberately aimed at facilitating a high-casualty attack. The case has prompted renewed calls for closer scrutiny of organisations like MyCentre and increased vigilance against radicalisation and hate speech. Critics argue that existing laws and monitoring efforts have often allowed extremist rhetoric to flourish just below legal thresholds, highlighting the continuing challenges in balancing civil liberties with security imperatives.
The investigation remains ongoing, with authorities indicating that updates will be provided when appropriate. Meanwhile, the broader implications of this case are fostering debate about Australia’s preparedness to identify and intervene in the early stages of radicalisation within its communities.