A man who lost his life in a shooting incident involving five individuals, described by authorities as an ‘underworld attack’, has been identified as Alai Ahio, aged 28. The fatal shooting occurred on the evening of May 19 in Canley Heights, where Ahio, a former affiliate of Sydney-based rap group OneFour, sustained critical injuries. The police were alerted to gunshots at the location shortly before 8:20 pm.
Following the incident, two men, including Ahio and another individual aged 32, sought medical assistance at Liverpool Hospital around 8:30 pm. Despite undergoing surgery, Ahio tragically passed away, while the 32-year-old remains hospitalized in serious condition with a neck injury. Subsequently, two more men, aged 23 and 22, arrived at Fairfield Hospital in critical condition, later being transferred to different medical facilities for treatment.
The ongoing police investigation suggests that two additional men entered the residence in Canley Vale, leading to the eruption of gunfire. It is believed that these two individuals fled the scene in a white SUV. All five men involved in the shooting were acquainted with each other, according to law enforcement.
Authorities are exploring potential connections to organized crime, particularly focusing on the emerging group referred to as the “coconut cartel,” although no concrete links have been confirmed. The police have cordoned off the crime scenes at the residence in Canley Heights and another location in Saint Johns Park, where the vehicles used to transport the injured men were discovered.
Detective Superintendent Craig Middleton emphasized that the attack appears to have been targeted, with police taking preventive measures to forestall any further similar assaults in the following 48 hours. The motive behind the attack remains unclear at this stage.
Middleton described the incident as a bold and violent assault, noting that investigations into organized crime are in their early stages. The case is being handled by officers from Fairfield City Police Area Command in collaboration with the State Crime Command’s Homicide Squad.
Individuals with relevant information are encouraged to reach out to Crime Stoppers at 1800 333 000 for assistance and support.
