Police swoop follows push against gangs

TASMANIA Police has followed up tough talk on the criminal activities of outlaw motorcycle gangs and their associates by swooping on properties it believes are connected to bikie organisations.

Police yesterday said four people charged with drug, firearm, burglary and driving offences this month were known associates of outlaw motorcycle gangs (OMCGs) and one was a Bandidos member.

Last week the State Government released responses to its Organised Criminal Groups Legislation Position Paper.

Under planned anti-bikies laws, OMCG members will be prohibited from displaying insignia in public and from associating with each other if they have convictions for serious crimes.

The Bandidos, Black Uhlans, Devil’s Henchman, Outlaws and Rebels all have chapters in Tasmania and police say there are 269 gang members in the state.

Yesterday, Tasmania Police said a 49-year-old Devonport man, who had been a known associate of outlaw motorcycle gangs including the Finks, Outlaws and the Devil’s Henchmen for more than 20 years, was charged with firearms offences.

The swoop was part of Operation Vitreus, which was held from May 7 to 13.

“A quantity of white crystal substance was also seized and investigations are continuing in relation to this,” police said.

The man was bailed to appear in the Devonport Magistrates Court on June 26.

A 26-year-old Devonport woman was charged with cannabis possession after a search at the same address. Police say she is a confirmed Bandidos associate.

Police said a 40-year-old Bandidos outlaw motorcycle gang member was also arrested and charged in relation to outstanding matters including burglary, evading police (aggravated circumstances), driving while disqualified and using an unregistered and uninsured motor vehicle. He will appear in the Burnie Magistrates Court on June 19.

And a 37-year-old woman from Burnie, who police say is also a known Bandidos associate, has been proceeded against in relation to allegedly selling methylamphetamine after her residence was searched as part of the clampdown.

Acting Assistant Commissioner Tony Cerritelli said Tasmania was at risk of being the safe haven in Australia for outlaw motorcycle gangs.

“Outlaw motorcycle gangs are first and foremost organised criminal gangs which are significant players in controlling the importation and distribution of drugs, especially ice and speed, into Tasmania,” he said.

The Bandidos Motorcycle Club, in its submission to the State Government’s Organised Criminal Groups Legislation Position Paper, “categorically refuted” it was connected with the importation of the drug ice and said its distribution, possession and use was prohibited among members (not associates).

The Bandidos say, under their own rules, any member found to be using or dealing in ice is instantly dismissed.