Allegations Surface Linking Comancheros to Queensland Construction Sites

An inquiry into the Queensland branch of the CFMEU has unveiled alarming allegations connecting the Comancheros motorcycle gang to construction operations in the region. Testimonies this week highlighted a threatening incident involving a gang member at the Centenary Bridge upgrade project in Jindalee, Brisbane.

The inquiry, which has been scrutinizing the CFMEU’s activities, revealed that the alleged ties between bikie gangs and the construction sector, previously speculated, are now more concrete. The focus has shifted to the actions of certain developers involved in a significant state government infrastructure project, rather than the CFMEU itself.

During the proceedings, it was revealed that on June 5, 2024, a Comancheros member allegedly threatened a crane operator at the construction site. Senior Counsel Assisting Eddy Gisonda presented evidence suggesting that Gary Samuel, who was contracted for security at the site by BMD Group, had been in contact with both BMD's senior management and Bemir Saracevic, the former national president of the Comancheros.

Mr. Gisonda indicated that phone records might imply that Samuel transported Saracevic and his associates from Brisbane Airport to the construction site. CCTV footage played at the inquiry showed Saracevic confronting CFMEU delegate Cody Raymond, threatening him with violence and intimidation.

In a chilling recount, Raymond stated that Saracevic introduced himself aggressively, asserting his identity and issuing threats against Raymond’s home and family. The inquiry also revealed that BMD managers were present at a nearby sushi restaurant shortly before the threatening encounter, raising questions about their involvement.

When asked about the CCTV footage of the incident, BMD's Rob Pickard and Steve Thomas denied any wrongdoing, despite being questioned about possible discussions regarding the deletion of footage. The inquiry heard that Queensland Police had requested this footage in November 2024 but were informed by BMD that it was unavailable.

Gareth Davie, a corporate construction manager for Georgiou Group, testified that Thomas had expressed concern about the footage and restricted access to it, reducing the number of people who could view it significantly. However, it was noted that project manager Quinn Murray had made his own copy of the footage, suspecting irregularities.

In a separate incident presented, Thomas was seen in police footage alongside William Samra, an alleged Comancheros member, though Thomas claimed they were merely socializing without knowledge of Samra’s affiliations.

Gisonda also disclosed that intelligence agencies had previously identified the Comancheros’ efforts to infiltrate the construction industry in Victoria, with indications that they were extending these operations into Queensland.

CFMEU Administrator Michael Crosby condemned the threats against Raymond, describing the situation as “extremely distressing” and urging the industry to address unlawful activities comprehensively, beyond the actions of the union alone.

Source: www.abc.net.au