Fake union mediator threatens construction executive and family in $6.6 million extortion scheme
A construction executive testified that a man posing as a CFMEU mediator threatened him and his family over a $6.6 million extortion plot.
During a committal hearing in Melbourne Magistrates Court, a construction executive recounted a café meeting with 46-year-old Amir Teymoori, who claimed to be a CFMEU mediator. Teymoori allegedly warned that he would "f*** up" the executive, his boss and their families if the demanded money was not paid. Prosecutors allege Teymoori and three co-accused fabricated a mediation role, sent a $6.6 million invoice to the firm, and threatened violence to secure the payment.
The men face charges of extortion with a threat to kill, refusing a police order for a passcode, and deception. The executive testified that neither he nor any employee had authorized any agreement with Teymoori and that the threats were aimed specifically at him. Under cross-examination by Teymoori’s lawyer Damien Sheales, the executive affirmed the threats were unambiguous. The hearing will continue on Wednesday.
Why it matters
The case highlights how criminal groups exploit union negotiations to extort large sums from construction firms.
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