Melbourne imam denies links to suspected flydubai hijacker

A Melbourne imam has denied any connection to the co-pilot of a flydubai jet who allegedly hijacked the aircraft, according to a statement posted on social media. The imam, identified as Abu Hamza, stated he had never met the co-pilot, named in reports as Hamam al-Hammami, and that the centre he manages, My Centre, had no record of the man attending.

The prosecutor in the United Arab Emirates, where the co-pilot is currently in custody, claimed the individual was radicalized through extremist literature and online content during his time studying in Australia. The prosecutor also alleged that the co-pilot drew inspiration from the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks and aimed to cause maximum loss of life during his attempt to hijack the plane.

Despite these allegations, Abu Hamza unequivocally rejected violence in all its forms and emphasized that his teachings have consistently promoted peace. Australian and New Zealand authorities are investigating the co-pilot's potential links to the country, while the Imami has called on relevant authorities to verify his claims before publishing such information.