Gavin Preston: Melbourne’s Underworld Figure Slain in Shocking Café Attack

Exclusive: National Victorian Crime Underworld Figure Gavin Preston Shot Dead at Melbourne Cafe

By Chris Vedelago, Cameron Houston, Erin Pearson, Anthony Dowsley, and Alex Crowe

Updated September 9, 2023 — 1.16pm

First published at 11.43am

One of Melbourne‘s most notorious gangland figures, Gavin “Capable” Preston, has been shot dead in a suspected gangland attack. The incident occurred at a cafe in Keilor Village, just months after Preston’s release from prison. Preston, who had been involved in violent feuds with rivals in Melbourne‘s gangland scene, was gunned down on Saturday morning. Abbas Jr “AJ” Maghnie, the son of late underworld enforcer Nabil Maghnie, was also present at the cafe and was shot in the stomach.

Preston’s death has sent shockwaves through Melbourne‘s criminal underworld. According to anonymous sources, up to eight shots were fired at Preston and AJ Maghnie. The police have cordoned off several potential crime scenes in Melbourne‘s north-west as they piece together the events leading to the shooting.

A History of Violence

Gavin Preston, the son of late underworld enforcer Nabil Maghnie, has left a trail of violence and feuds in his wake. He was known for his involvement in several extortion attempts even after his release from prison, including intimidating a business owner who had been implicated in Nabil Maghnie’s death. Preston recently became close with AJ Maghnie, and the pair were involved in a transport business based in Melbourne‘s western suburbs.

Preston’s most notorious enemy was the Notorious Crime Family, led by convicted drug trafficker and murderer George Marrogi. Police and underworld sources indicate that Preston had threatened to rape Marrogi’s younger brother, Jesse Marrogi, upon his release from prison.

The Aftermath and Investigation

Victoria Police Chief Commissioner Shane Patton confirmed that a man in his 50s had been shot in Keilor Village. Another male was shot in the stomach, though Commissioner Patton did not confirm any deaths. Homicide detectives have set up a crime scene, while shops in the vicinity have been closed. The police have also cordoned off various areas for investigation.

It is reported that a contract was taken out on Preston’s life at least two months ago. Anonymous sources state that many people were happy to see him dead, as they believed that his claims of settling down and going straight were mere lies. Preston’s release from prison had put both the police and the criminal underworld on high alert, as he started building a new crew suspected of being involved in stand-overs and robberies.

Editorial: The Dark Reality of Melbourne‘s Crime Underworld

The violent death of Gavin “Capable” Preston highlights the grim reality of Melbourne‘s crime underworld. Gangland feuds, contract killings, and acts of revenge have become an all-too-common occurrence in the city. The fact that individuals like Preston can build significant criminal enterprises even after long prison sentences raises questions about the effectiveness of law enforcement and the justice system.

While it is easy to depict these underworld figures as deviants and criminals, it is essential to understand the social and economic factors that contribute to their rise. The allure of power, wealth, and respect in a system that values these attributes can lead individuals down a dangerous and destructive path. The underworld becomes a means of survival and an escape from a society that may have failed them.

However, this is not to absolve individuals like Preston of their crimes. The violence and harm they inflict on others cannot be justified or excused. It is merely an attempt to shed light on the complex nature of crime and the need for a multi-faceted approach that addresses both the symptoms and root causes.

The Role of Law Enforcement

Efforts to combat Melbourne‘s crime underworld must involve a comprehensive strategy that involves strong law enforcement presence, intelligence gathering, and collaboration with communities affected by these criminal networks. The police and other relevant authorities must be well-equipped and supported to carry out their duties effectively.

Additionally, there is a need for better coordination and information sharing between law enforcement agencies at the local, state, and national levels. Criminal enterprises, especially those involved in organized crime, often operate across jurisdictional boundaries. A united front against these criminal networks is crucial for success.

Social and Economic Intervention

To truly address the issues underlying Melbourne‘s crime underworld, wider social and economic interventions are necessary. Investment in education, employment opportunities, and social support programs can provide vulnerable individuals with alternatives to a life of crime. It is essential to break the cycle of criminality and provide avenues for rehabilitation and reintegration into society.

Moreover, addressing income inequality and poverty can help alleviate the social conditions that contribute to the growth of criminal networks. By creating a more equitable society where individuals have access to basic needs and opportunities, the appeal of joining the underworld may diminish.

Final Thoughts

The tragic death of Gavin Preston serves as a stark reminder of the challenges faced in combating the crime underworld in Melbourne. It is a complex issue that requires a multi-pronged approach, involving law enforcement, social intervention, and a broader examination of the societal factors that contribute to criminality.

While the road ahead may be long and challenging, it is crucial for the government, law enforcement agencies, and the community to work together in dismantling these criminal networks and creating a safer future for all Victorians.