The family of former NRL star Matt Utai is caught in the crosshairs of an escalating gangland conflict in Sydney, with police confirming a series of attacks linked to his son, Iziah Utai, and a bitter feud between the Alameddine crime family and a rival group dubbed the “Coconut Cartel.” The violence, which includes shootings and arson, has prompted the establishment of a 100-strong police taskforce.
The situation spiraled dramatically on Tuesday when Matt Utai, a premiership winner with the Canterbury Bulldogs in 2004, was shot twice outside his Greenacre home. He is currently hospitalized and undergoing treatment for serious leg wounds. NSW Police Organized Crime Squad boss Brad Abdy described the shooting as a “brazen ambush.”
The attacks didn’t end there. Later on Tuesday night, shots were fired at a home in St Clair, with a woman in her 50s present but unharmed. A vehicle was also found ablaze in a nearby suburb. On Wednesday, a house and another vehicle were targeted in a firebombing in Guildford West, though firefighters quickly extinguished the flames, and no injuries were reported.
Police believe Iziah Utai, also known as Ziggy, is a key figure in the conflict and the intended target of the attacks. “We believe all the offences are targeting one particular family. That’s the linkage between those offences,” Abdy stated. He added that the violence was “ridiculously disgusting” and expressed concern that innocent family members were being caught in the crossfire.
Evidence suggests the attacks are directly linked to Iziah Utai’s alleged associations with criminal entities. Unverified footage circulating on social media appears to show alleged offenders taunting the younger Utai before opening fire. Police have confirmed Iziah Utai is currently overseas, with his location unknown.
The Alameddine crime family has reportedly claimed responsibility for the attacks, with messages shared on an underworld-focused media channel threatening further violence. One message, signed “the one and only crime family, forever strong,” directly references Iziah Utai, calling him “the rat Ziggy Utai” and warning, “Here’s just the start… its a losing battle for you and anyone that dares to come against us.”
Matt Utai enjoyed a successful NRL career, playing 167 games for the Canterbury Bulldogs and Wests Tigers. He was a pivotal member of the Bulldogs’ 2004 premiership-winning team, scoring two tries in the grand final victory over the Sydney Roosters. He also represented both New Zealand and Samoa internationally.
The Bulldogs released a statement expressing their shock and sadness at the news of the shooting. The club offered its support to Utai and his family during this difficult time.
The escalating violence has prompted a significant police response. The newly formed task force, comprised of over 100 investigators, is focused on quelling the feud and bringing those responsible to justice. Authorities are treating the spate of incidents as a serious escalation in gang-related activity in Western Sydney.
The conflict between the Alameddine family and the “Coconut Cartel” appears to be the driving force behind the attacks. While details about the “Coconut Cartel” remain scarce, police believe they represent a new rival syndicate challenging the Alameddine’s dominance. The feud has been simmering for months, but recent events have marked a dangerous and violent turning point.
The investigation is ongoing, and police are appealing for information from the public. The focus remains on protecting the Utai family and preventing further acts of violence as the conflict continues to unfold.
