Melbourne Islamic leader denies links to alleged Flydubai hijacker

AI-generated briefing · First published 2026-10-12 07:56:10 UTC

UAE prosecutors say Omani co-pilot Hammam al-Hammami was radicalised at RMIT University and linked to Melbourne's MyCentre, run by Samir Mohtadi.

UAE prosecutors allege Omani co-pilot Hammam al-Hammami became radicalised while studying at RMIT University in Melbourne and was acquainted with MyCentre, managed by Samir Mohtadi, also known as Abu Hamza. [1] [2] [3]

Mohtadi posted a video on MyCentre's Facebook page praising silence when facing accusations but did not directly address the claims. [1] [2]

The 30 September flight from Dubai to Tel Aviv carried 182 people; passengers and crew subdued al-Hammami after he allegedly attacked the Indian captain with an axe. [1] [2]

Sources

1. Melbourne Islamic leader linked to suspected Flydubai hijacker condemns 'false accusations'

   France 24 English · 2026-10-12 03:49:40 UTC · Full text

2. Melbourne Islamic leader silent on centre’s alleged Flydubai hijacker links in Facebook video

   The Guardian · 2026-10-12 04:55:40 UTC · Full text

3. Investigation into FlyDubai Attacker Puts Spotlight on a Melbourne Mosque

   NY Times · 2026-10-12 07:11:09 UTC · Summary only

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