Man charged over conspiracy to murder Sydney ‘rival’
A man has been charged over an alleged carjacking and conspiracy to murder a “rival” in an escalating gang war between two families in south-west Sydney.
Early this morning, Samuel Rokomaqisa was arrested at a home in Granville, accused of plotting to murder Ibrahem Hamze.
Hamze is the brother of underworld figure Bilal who was shot dead outside a Japanese restaurant in Sydney CBD in June.
The alleged hit was planned for August 14, when police tried to stop a Mercedes on Walker Street in North Sydney. After a short chase, the car was later found abandoned on Miller St in Cammeray.
Police were told the people in the car, described as two men in dark clothing, then approached a nearby Toyota Camry and allegedly threatened the 76-year-old male driver with a gun.
They then fled in the Toyota and were last seen heading north on Miller Street.
“It will be alleged by police that these men were in Walker Street North Sydney for the sole purpose of shooting dead a man who they believe is a rival in territorial disputes in south-west Sydney,” Detective Superintendent Grant Taylor, Commander of the Criminal Groups Squad said today.
The Mercedes, which had allegedly been stolen from San Souci in November 2020, was seized for forensic examination and was later found to contain cloned number plates.
He said police are in contact with the intended victim of the alleged hit.
“He can thank his lucky stars that he’s alive,” Detective Superintendent Taylor said.
The alleged crime is the latest chapter in a bloody rivalry between south-west Sydney Hamzy and Allameddine families.
Police have issued a warning to anyone who may be involved in the escalating tensions.
“..if you or your associates involve yourself in violent crime, you’ll be put at the front of our targeting list,” Detective Superintendent Taylor said.
“If you don’t want the attention, don’t commit the violent crime. Simple as that.”
Just after 6am today, 31-year-old Rokomaqisa was apprehended in Granville. The property was also searched.
He has since been charged with six offences:
- Conspire and agree to murder any person,
- armed with intent commit indictable offence,
- drive conveyance taken without consent of owner,
- police pursuit – not stop – drive recklessly,
- in company rob while armed with dangerous weapon, and,
- drive motor vehicle during disqualification period.
Police will allege in court the man was involved in the carjacking of the Toyota in August this year.
It will be further alleged that the man was involved in conspiring to murder another man.
He was refused bail and is due to appear at Parramatta Local Court today.
Investigations under Strike Force Gillwinga continue, and anybody with information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
