Melbourne Islamic leader Samir Mohtadi has released a Facebook video extolling silence, but remains silent on allegations linking his centre to the accused Flydubai hijacker. The video, posted on MyCentre's Facebook page, comes after UAE prosecutors claimed the suspect, Hammam al-Hammami, drifted toward extremism while studying at RMIT University in Melbourne.
Background of the Allegations
Dr Hamad Saif al-Shamsi, the attorney general of the UAE, stated over the weekend that investigators traced the 29-year-old suspect's ideological and professional background. They found that his "drift towards extremism and terrorism" began in 2017 while he was studying at RMIT University in Melbourne. Al-Hammami, an Omani national and co-pilot, allegedly attended a mosque affiliated with RMIT and became acquainted with people associated with a centre known as "MyCentre." The centre is managed by Samir Mohtadi, also known as Abu Hamza. However, the attorney general did not claim that anyone at the centre radicalised al-Hammami or had prior knowledge of his intentions before the 30 September flight.
MyCentre Leader's Video on Silence
On Sunday night, Samir Mohtadi appeared in a four-minute video on MyCentre's Facebook page. In the video, he refers to Islamic texts on the virtues of staying silent but does not directly address the accusations. The timing of the video has raised questions, as it comes amid heightened scrutiny of the centre's alleged links to the accused hijacker.
Key Takeaways
- UAE prosecutors allege Flydubai hijacker Hammam al-Hammami was radicalised while studying in Melbourne.
- MyCentre leader Samir Mohtadi released a video on silence but did not comment on the allegations.
- No direct allegation has been made that MyCentre radicalised al-Hammami or knew of his plans.
- The investigation continues as authorities seek to understand the radicalisation process.
Comparison of Statements
| Source | Statement |
|---|---|
| UAE Attorney General | Al-Hammami's drift to extremism began in Melbourne; attended mosque affiliated with RMIT and knew people at MyCentre. |
| MyCentre Leader (Video) | Extolled virtues of silence; no direct comment on allegations. |
| MyCentre (Official) | No allegation of involvement in radicalisation or knowledge of intentions. |
Implications for the Melbourne Islamic Community
The allegations have put Melbourne's Islamic community in the spotlight. While no direct link has been proven between MyCentre and the hijacking, the UAE's claims may lead to increased scrutiny of Islamic centres in Australia. Community leaders may need to address concerns and reinforce their commitment to peace and security.
FAQ
Who is Samir Mohtadi?
Samir Mohtadi, also known as Abu Hamza, is the leader of MyCentre, an Islamic centre in Melbourne. He appeared in a Facebook video discussing silence amid allegations linking the centre to the accused Flydubai hijacker.
What are the allegations against MyCentre?
UAE prosecutors allege that the accused hijacker, Hammam al-Hammami, became acquainted with people associated with MyCentre while studying in Melbourne. However, there is no allegation that MyCentre radicalised him or had knowledge of his intentions.
What did the UAE attorney general say?
Dr Hamad Saif al-Shamsi stated that al-Hammami's drift towards extremism began in 2017 while he was at RMIT University. He attended a mosque affiliated with RMIT and met people from MyCentre.
Conclusion
The release of the video by MyCentre's leader has not quelled speculation about the centre's alleged links to the Flydubai hijacker. As investigations continue, the Melbourne Islamic community remains under scrutiny. GrandGoldman.com will provide updates as this story develops.