Notorious Ex-Bikie Chief Detained in UAE Over Alleged Extortion Plot
A former high-ranking Australian bikie gang leader, who later recast himself as an author, has been arrested in the United Arab Emirates. Amad 'Jay' Malkoun, the one-time Victorian head of the Comanchero motorcycle club, is being held in Dubai in connection with a suspected extortion scheme.
From Gangland to Ghostwriter: Malkoun's Reinvention
Malkoun, 62, stepped back from his alleged leadership role with the Comancheros in 2013. In recent years, he sought to leave his criminal past behind, publishing a memoir titled 'The Consultant' in 2024. In the book's cover notes, he described himself as a negotiator of multi-million dollar deals in both boardrooms and backrooms.
Despite this attempted reinvention, his violent past continued to shadow him. In 2015, while he was in Thailand, an associate was abducted and murdered. Then, in 2019, he survived a targeted car-bombing in Athens, Greece. A device planted in his Mercedes-Benz was detonated as he left a gym. No arrests were ever made over that attack.
A Global Criminal Network and Dubai Arrest
Malkoun is known to have cultivated an extensive criminal network spanning Asia and Europe. This included playing a founding role in establishing a Comanchero chapter in Russia. He later relocated to Dubai, stating in his book that he moved to 'pursue international interests'.
His stay in the UAE has now been cut short. Authorities in Dubai have detained him over his alleged involvement in an extortion scheme. A spokesperson for Australia's Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade confirmed consular assistance is being provided to his family, but cited privacy obligations for not commenting further.
Malkoun's arrest highlights the long reach of law enforcement and the ongoing scrutiny faced by figures with organised crime histories, even when they attempt to start anew in foreign jurisdictions.
