An underworld figure with links to organised crime was likely executed by two interstate men described as "guns for hire".

Athan Boursinos, 21, was allegedly ambushed by two disguised offenders beside his car in a laneway near his family home in Wollert, in Melbourne's north, on July 31.

The planned killing was ordered by an organised crime syndicate in Sydney, Victoria Police acting Detective Superintendent Mark Hatt told reporters.

He said the motive was still being investigated but confirmed Mr Boursinos was a suspect in the shooting death of Sam "The Punisher" Abdulrahim.

Mr Abdulrahim was walking with his girlfriend when the former Mongols bikie was gunned down in a Preston apartment block's underground car park on January 29.

Det Supt Hatt revealed there were likely numerous peo

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