Detectives from Taskforce Hawk have arrested three men in connection with a blackmail investigation linked to the construction industry. The arrests took place during coordinated operations in Eltham, Watsonia, and Mernda on October 24, 2023. This follows allegations involving a demand for $663,000 made to a victim at a property in Brooklyn on January 19, 2026.
The suspects include a 32-year-old man from Eltham, who is a former senior official of the Construction, Forestry, Maritime, Mining and Energy Union (CFMEU) and currently affiliated with the Bandidos Outlaw Motorcycle Gang (OMCG). Also arrested were a 32-year-old man from Watsonia and a 55-year-old man from Mernda. All three remain in police custody as the investigation continues.
Ongoing Investigations and Taskforce Hawk’s Mission
Operation Hawk was initiated in July 2024 to address criminal activities associated with the construction sector. It evolved into Taskforce Hawk in June 2025 in response to increasing allegations of serious and violent crimes. The taskforce is dedicated to gathering intelligence and evidence related to criminal behaviour in the construction industry, particularly focusing on individuals with known ties to outlaw motorcycle gangs.
According to Crime Command Commander Paul O’Halloran, the taskforce is committed to tackling corruption, violence, and intimidation in the sector. He stated, “Criminal conduct, involving corruption, intimidation and violence within the construction industry is unacceptable. We will be unrelenting by continuing to target serious and organised crime entities and dismantle corrupt and criminal business activities in the construction industry.”
Community Support and Reporting Mechanisms
Police are actively engaging with stakeholders in the construction industry to enhance intelligence gathering. They are collaborating with various law enforcement agencies, regulators, and government authorities to strengthen their efforts against organized crime.
Commander O’Halloran urged victims of threats, extortion, or blackmail to come forward, stating, “If you are a victim of threats, extortion or blackmail contact us, please come forward and we will support and protect you.”
Individuals with any information related to these incidents are encouraged to reach out to Crime Stoppers at 1800 333 000 or submit a confidential online report at www.crimestoppersvic.com.au.
