A serious dispute has erupted between Mahmood Fazal, a journalist for Four Corners and former member of the Mongols bikie gang, and his former podcast co-host, Ryan Naumenko. The conflict revolves around allegations that Naumenko fabricated text messages in which Fazal reportedly expressed a desire to harm Jordan Shanks, a prominent YouTube personality known as FriendlyJordies.
The tensions escalated after Fazal accused Naumenko of producing false evidence, including a message dated October 2, 2023, in which he allegedly stated, “F— Jordies and his people they’re dogs I wanna kill him so bad.” This message followed a video released by Shanks, in which he criticized the lack of accountability following a firebombing incident at his home in November 2022.
In the exchanges, Fazal commented on Shanks’ situation, questioning his complaints about the repercussions of mocking organized crime figures. “I don’t know why he’s crying… comes with the territory… you want to shit on gangsters and make fun of them in your video,” he reportedly said. Fazal has since categorically denied any wrongdoing, asserting that the messages were taken out of context or fabricated entirely.
Naumenko, who has a history of criminal activity and describes himself as “part journalist, part outlaw,” refuted Fazal’s claims, stating, “The old narrative ‘Ryan lies’ – doesn’t work and won’t work this time.” Following the fallout, Fazal has filed a statement with local authorities and requested a personal safety intervention order against Naumenko.
The two men had previously collaborated on a podcast titled Word on the Street, which aimed to delve into the criminal underworld. However, their partnership soured, with Naumenko launching a vigorous verbal assault against Fazal in a recent YouTube video. He criticized mainstream media for their coverage of the ongoing situation, labeling them as lacking integrity.
In the context of their dispute, Naumenko has made further claims regarding financial transactions related to the podcast. He alleges that Fazal demanded cash payments and failed to disclose these earnings to the ABC. Naumenko pointed out that the podcast’s funding came from an online gambling entity, Vegastars. He also indicated that he would not cooperate with any internal investigations by the ABC regarding Fazal’s conduct.
The podcast was intended to provide insights into the activities of the Alameddine crime gang, a group noted for its violent clashes with rival factions, including the Hamzy clan. Fazal has a complex background, having served as a sergeant-at-arms for the Mongols. Despite his past affiliations, he has transitioned into journalism, earning a Walkley Award in 2020 for his investigative work.
The situation gained further complexity when Naumenko confronted the media about their portrayal of Fazal. He expressed frustration, stating that the coverage reflected poorly on Australian journalism. “The media circus around Fazal shows Australian journalism’s true colours,” he remarked.
Fazal’s relationship with organized crime has previously drawn scrutiny. Reports surfaced indicating that he had been accused of relaying threats from the Alameddine gang to Shanks and his producer, Kristo Langker. Despite these allegations, police did not pursue charges against Fazal.
In a statement to the ABC, Fazal defended his actions, stating, “I deny any wrongdoing.” He also emphasized Naumenko’s criminal history, arguing that it should be considered when evaluating the credibility of his claims.
As the situation unfolds, the ABC has initiated an investigation into Fazal’s involvement in the podcast and any financial dealings associated with it. A spokesperson for the ABC confirmed that management is thoroughly reviewing the matter, particularly following Naumenko’s allegations regarding cash payments.
Both individuals now find themselves at the center of a media storm, with the potential for legal repercussions as the investigation continues. The outcomes of these accusations may have lasting implications for their careers and reputations within both the journalism and criminal communities.
