Tony Mokbel, a notorious figure from the underworld, is making a smooth transition back into everyday life after being released on bail. Within just three days of his freedom, he has been spotted attending church and visiting a shopping centre, suggesting a swift return to routine.
Reports from Thornbury indicate that Mokbel is receiving a warm welcome from the community, with parishioners embracing him and children eager to greet him. His Sunday began with prayer at the family church before he completed his required daily police check-in. Observations from criminologist Xanthie Mallett suggest that Mokbel appears to be reintegrating well into society, and indications are strong that his appeal against previous convictions might be successful.
The foundation of Mokbel’s case lies in allegations of misconduct involving his former lawyer, Nicola Gobbo, who was revealed to be working as a police informant, raising serious questions regarding the integrity of his trial. With a royal commission into the corruption surrounding these cases already established, the repercussions of these revelations extend beyond Mokbel. Several of Gobbo’s former clients have seen their convictions overturned and are pursuing legal actions against the Victorian state for damages. One notable case involves Faruk Orman, who is suing Gobbo personally.
Should Mokbel win his appeal, it could lead to claims against the government amounting to $1 million linked to the Lawyer X scandal. Additionally, he may seek restitution for approximately $20 million worth of assets that were seized following his arrest. As Mallett noted, the level of corruption present in Mokbel’s earlier convictions was so extensive that a favourable outcome for him seemed inevitable.
As Mokbel continues to navigate his newfound freedom, his actions are being closely monitored, signalling a significant chapter in this ever-evolving narrative of legal and personal redemption.