Melbourne Islamic Centre Manager Denies Links to flydubai Cockpit Attack Suspect

A Melbourne man whose Islamic community centre was linked by prosecutors in the United Arab Emirates to a co-pilot accused of attacking a flydubai flight captain has strongly dismissed the allegations as false.

The Omani co-pilot, identified in reports as Hamam al-Hammami, is currently in custody in the UAE following an incident on a September 30 flight from Dubai to Tel Aviv. According to Emirati state media, the suspect drew inspiration from the September 11, 2001 attacks and intended to cause mass casualties. Prosecutors alleged the co-pilot became radicalised while studying in Australia and acquainted with "MyCentre," an organization managed by a Lebanese man named Abu Hamza. Neither "MyCentre" nor Abu Hamza face any criminal wrongdoing charges.

In a video posted on Facebook and in a separate statement to Australia's ABC news, Abu Hamza—also known as Samir Mohtadi—rejected the accusations. "Throughout my life, I have consistently preached peace," Mohtadi said, emphasizing that his work and the centre have focused on promoting harmony and community wellbeing while unequivocally rejecting violence.

During the flight, the suspect used an emergency axe to attack Indian captain Smit Machchhar. Another pilot, a cabin crew member, and several passengers intervened, rescuing the injured captain and restraining the suspect. Meanwhile, police and intelligence agencies in Australia and New Zealand continue to investigate the suspect's background and ties to the region.