Boxer fighting murder conviction now accused of running tobacco empire
Khalid Baker fought a wrongful murder conviction. Now he faces allegations of leading an illegal tobacco operation.
Baker is 39 years old. Baker won the Victorian Regional Cruiserweight title in 2019.
The victory came less than a year after serving a 13-year sentence. Baker was convicted of a 2005 death he claims he did not commit.
Baker appeared on 60 Minutes and SBS Insight fighting for justice. Court documents name him and associate Nazir Haddara as the leaders of an illegal tobacco network.
The network operated at least 19 shops across Victoria. It made over ten million dollars.
Police and the Australian Border Force shut down the operation in mid-2024. They used raids known as Operation Galactus.
Baker is believed to be hiding overseas. Baker is wanted under an active arrest warrant.
- Over ten million dollars in proceeds
- Network value
- At least 19 across Victoria
- Shops operated
- Victorian Regional Cruiserweight, 2019
- Title won
- Operation Galactus, mid-2024
- Operation name
Why it mattersThis shows a striking change. It exposes how complex the justice system is. It raises questions about rehabilitation and oversight.
AustraliaA major Victorian organised crime operation has been dismantled, though its alleged leader remains at large overseas.
Corroborated bytheage.com.au·watoday.com.au
✓ Claims checked against the source and corrected before publish. checked 1 d ago
