{
  "id": 16998672,
  "title": "Police uncover usernames allegedly directing Melbourne arson attacks",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/10/29/police-uncover-usernames-allegedly-directing-melbourne-arson-attacks",
  "topic": "world",
  "section": "World",
  "published": "2026-10-29T03:10:25.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "ABC News AU",
    "slug": "abc-news-au",
    "url": "https://www.abc.net.au/news/2026-10-29/vic-police-uncover-arson-taskmasters-usernames/107322946"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "Victorian police have discovered usernames allegedly tied to a series of arson attacks and extortion incidents throughout Melbourne. Authorities are urging the public to assist in identifying the individuals behind the online handles, including \"Onepercent,\" \"Motion,\" and \"Work.\" These usernames are believed to have belonged to temporary accounts that may no longer be active. Detectives from the Armed Crime Squad suspect that these usernames were controlled by individuals who orchestrated attacks on various establishments, such as bars, clubs, and restaurants, during a recent period referred to as the \"bar wars.\" The investigation into the matter intensified in April, following a series of daily fires targeting venues, often situated in bustling CBD and inner-city areas. Detective Acting Inspector Simon Pengelly emphasized the importance of community involvement in providing information, stating that police depend on public intelligence for their success. He urged anyone with knowledge about the mentioned usernames to come forward and cooperate with the police. Several juveniles have already been brought before the courts in connection with the attacks, including a home invasion in Pakenham and an arson at a cocktail bar in Southbank. In July, 20-year-old Jesse Hadchiti was charged as a central figure in coordinating some of the attacks, allegedly working for a criminal syndicate led by Ali al-Huseini, who was previously convicted of drug trafficking in Iraq. Hadchiti reportedly had access to up to 2,000 potential offenders who could carry out criminal activities on behalf of the gang. The Arson Squad has previously linked the three organizers to attacks on hospitality venues, while also acknowledging that organized crime syndicates, particularly the 313 gang led by exiled tobacco boss Kazem Hamad, engage in various criminal activities such as illegal tobacco or drug trade.",
  "summary": "Victorian police have identified multiple online usernames suspected of ordering crimes including alleged firebombings and extortions across Melbourne.",
  "key_points": [
    "Police find usernames linked to Melbourne arson attacks.",
    "Authorities urge public to identify individuals behind usernames.",
    "Detectives suspect attacks were orchestrated by criminal syndicate."
  ],
  "editors_take": "The identification of specific digital handles marks a shift toward using online footprints to dismantle the organized networks allegedly orchestrating targeted violence against Melbourne's hospitality industry.",
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}