UPDATE: Gangland figure Tony Mokbel is set to celebrate the New Year in Queensland after a significant easing of his bail conditions. In a dramatic turn of events today, Mokbel, aged 60, attended the Victorian Supreme Court expecting a decision on a retrial for his drug charges, but was met with a delay as prosecutors sought more time.
During the court proceedings, prosecutor Simon Thomas announced that there was still no final determination on whether the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) would pursue a retrial following the quashing of Mokbel’s conviction in October. Thomas requested an extension until February for the DPP to review the evidence, leaving Mokbel and his legal team frustrated.
Defense barrister Julie Condon, KC, expressed her dissatisfaction with the ongoing delays, stating, “It’s time to bring this ‘sorry saga’ to an end.” Condon highlighted that the case revolves around a single count of incitement linked to meetings between Mokbel and undercover operatives in June 2005.
Judicial registrar Timothy Freeman echoed these concerns, emphasizing the need to resolve the matter promptly. He ordered the case to return to court in early February and noted that any retrial may take place in the County Court, which could affect the proceedings.
In a significant shift, Mokbel’s bail conditions were relaxed, allowing him to use a smartphone, relocate, and lifting a curfew that restricted his movements after dark. However, it was mandated that he report to a police station three times a week while in Queensland.
Mokbel’s legal troubles are extensive. In 2012, he was sentenced to 30 years in prison after pleading guilty to running a drug syndicate. Following the Court of Appeal’s ruling on October 3, his conviction for one charge was overturned, leading to a retrial order for another. The court found that the involvement of informant Nicola Gobbo compromised the integrity of some cases against Mokbel.
The retrial linked to the Orbital case alleges Mokbel commissioned the importation of MDMA into Australia by ordering 100 kilograms at a cost of $1.2 million. The judges clarified that while the earlier conviction was quashed, it did not automatically affect other charges, including the Magnum conviction that remains intact.
As Mokbel prepares for a holiday, the legal saga continues to unfold. The next critical date is in February when the court will reconvene to address the prosecution’s delay and the future of Mokbel’s retrial.
Stay tuned for updates on this developing story as it unfolds.
