UPDATE: Police have just announced a staggering $1 million reward for information leading to further breakthroughs in the murder case of Robert Issa, a notorious gangland figure shot dead in a shopping center car park in Craigieburn, Melbourne, in October 2023. This unusual move comes after authorities made significant arrests last week.
Issa was brutally killed in broad daylight when men in balaclavas ambushed him and an associate inside a white Mercedes-Benz. The assailants unleashed a hail of bullets, fatally injuring Issa and seriously wounding his companion while horrified shoppers looked on. The attackers fled the scene in a black Range Rover, leaving the community in shock.
In a pivotal development, homicide detectives arrested five men linked to the murder during a series of early-morning raids across six properties in Kew, Mickleham, Pascoe Vale, and Fawkner last Thursday. The suspects have been identified as Dion Perrone (29), Muhammed Sayan (31), Bechara Bayrouty (33), Christian Behrndt (26), and Fabio Perrone (26). All five men face charges of murder, attempted murder, and property destruction by fire. They are currently remanded in custody and are scheduled to appear in court on December 4.
In a related development, authorities in Greece arrested a sixth suspect believed to be connected to Issa’s murder at an airport in Athens. This individual was detained under an Interpol notice issued on behalf of Australia. The federal Attorney-General’s Department confirmed the arrest of an Australian citizen but refrained from providing further details, citing ongoing legal proceedings in Greece.
Officials emphasize the urgency of this case, noting the significant public interest and the potential for further information to emerge. The $1 million reward aims to encourage witnesses to come forward, assuring that any tips provided will be treated with the utmost confidentiality.
This case has sent shockwaves through Melbourne and beyond, highlighting the ongoing issues related to gang violence in the region. As the investigation continues, authorities are urging anyone with information to step forward, as even the smallest detail may prove crucial.
Stay tuned for more updates as this case develops, and law enforcement continues to seek justice for Robert Issa and his family.
