The first of five men accused of belonging to an organised crime syndicate responsible for stealing more than 60 Toyota LandCruisers has been denied bail in Brisbane Arrest Court, potentially facing up to 14 years in prison.
Sher Hussain Mahasely, a 29-year-old Uber driver and business owner, was arrested by Queensland Police Service officers on December 9, 2025. He appeared before a magistrate on Tuesday seeking bail, but after a hearing lasting approximately 30 minutes, his application was refused.
Police allege Mahasely is a member of a five-man syndicate behind a sharp increase in Toyota vehicle thefts across Brisbane. Investigators claim the group stole 74 vehicles—mainly LandCruiser 300 Series models and RAV4 SUVs—over a three-week period, with the total value exceeding $8 million.
According to police, the syndicate used a CAN bus device to bypass vehicle security systems. The technology allows offenders to disable immobilisers, unlock doors, start engines, and deactivate vehicle tracking systems. Authorities say the method mirrors similar organised theft operations previously identified in Victoria.
Toyota Australia has acknowledged the issue and stated it is actively working to address the vulnerability nationwide.
Prosecutors allege the stolen vehicles were targeted for dismantling, with parts intended for overseas resale. In court, Mahasely was described as having recently established a car-parts business, Sherwood Car Parts Pty Ltd, in Rocklea. Business records show the company was registered in late August 2025 and is currently listed as temporarily closed.
Mahasely’s defence lawyer argued he was not a flight risk, highlighting his cooperation with police and the non-violent nature of the alleged offences. However, the magistrate ruled the crimes were highly organised and sophisticated, citing the scale, value, and intensity of the alleged activity as grounds to deny bail.
Mahasely is expected to reappear in court when proceedings continue in January 2026.
