One of Australia’s most wanted fugitives has appeared in court in Greece, where a fresh legal fight is underway to try to bring him back to Australia.
James Dalamangas spoke publicly for the first time since disappearing in 1999 after a fatal stabbing in Belmore. He maintained his innocence and made clear he intends to remain in Greece.
Though his appearance has changed significantly over the past 27 years, Dalamangas spoke emotionally about the death of his brother Peter, as if the loss were recent.
“Let the world know the truth. They murdered my brother in 1998 at the casino in Sydney,” he said.
Dalamangas used his first court appearance in Greece to call for justice over his brother’s death, even as he faced allegations over his own case.
He is accused of murdering George Giannopolous, who was allegedly stabbed to death at a nightclub in Belmore in 1999. Authorities are concerned the long passage of time could work in his favour.
“Ultimately, this will go through the courts in Greece, reviewed by the government. They may make a decision to send him back to us. I hope they do,” former NSW Police detective Duncan McNab said.
Dalamangas is a Greek citizen, and his lawyer has told reporters he will contest extradition to Australia.
If he is allowed to remain in Greece, he will not face charges over the fatal stabbing because the statute of limitations for murder there runs out after 25 years.
“Greece and the Mediterranean area has been a sunny place for shady people. They could disappear,” McNab noted.
Authorities allege Dalamangas had been living under the name Antonis Tzimas, reportedly working as an olive grove farmer and keeping dozens of Rottweilers.
Greek police are said to have waited outside his property for three days before he finally came out. Investigators had only three identifying details to work with: Antonis, Australian and tattoo.
That tattoo included the Greek phrase “Molon Lave”, meaning “come and get them”.
On Wednesday, he is expected to learn whether Australian police have any chance of bringing him home to face court.
