The Victoria Police taskforce investigating corruption in the construction sector has arrested three individuals, including Joel Leavitt, a former health and safety representative for the CFMEU who is reportedly associated with the Bandidos outlaw motorcycle gang. This arrest comes amidst an ongoing investigation into corrupt practices within the construction industry, particularly concerning incidents of blackmail and intimidation.

Leavitt’s arrest is notable not only for the corruption accusations but also for the link to organized crime, raising concerns about the intersection of labor unions and criminal elements in the construction field. The incident that led to these arrests stems from a reported blackmail case that occurred in January in Melbourne’s inner west, indicating that the corruption probe has potentially deep roots in criminal activities linked to union operations.

The timing of the arrests coincides with pressure on Premier Jacinta Allan, who has faced questions regarding her awareness of potential wrongdoing within the CFMEU during her tenure as the infrastructure minister. This situation places additional scrutiny on her leadership and the measures taken to address systemic issues within powerful unions like the CFMEU, highlighting the ongoing challenges in regulating the relationship between labor unions, criminal organizations, and government oversight.