RCMP seize biker vests, guns in Fort McMurray

FORT MCMURRAY Police are releasing few details surrounding the five members of an outlaw motorcycle gang they arrested last week, but investigators say the arrest was part of a broader conflict with a rival group also in the city.

The men arrested — who were all full members of the Warlocks motorcycle club — were allegedly active in a growing conflict with the Syndicate, a proxy motorcycle club of the Hells Angels.

Investigators released few details about the nature of that conflict at a Monday news conference in Fort McMurray, but said they learned of the tension between the groups in late August.

Insp. Chad Coles of the Alberta Law Enforcement Response Team said there have been “criminal incidents” linked to this conflict, but would not mention specific cases.

“These are self-described outlaws. To law-abiding members of the community, these cuts are used for intimidation. They instil fear,” said Coles. “Anyone who wears the cut of an outlaw motorcycle club is a target for law enforcement.”

Four search warrants were carried out Sept. 21, three on vehicles and the fourth at a residence alleged to be the clubhouse for the Warlocks in Fort McMurray.

Coles would not say where in the city the house was located. During the search, police seized 15 rifles and shotguns, one Glock handgun, brass knuckles and bear spray. They also seized seven Warlocks vests, club documents and paraphernalia.

Jordan Norman, 31; Jeremy Smith, 30; Justin Swyer, 33; Randolph Carpentier, 55; and Shawn Brett, 27, were arrested and denied bail.

The Warlocks have been in Fort McMurray since 2010. The second chapter is in Edmonton. A third chapter in Drayton Valley collapsed after police arrested four members and four associates in 2014.

According to ALERT and the RCMP, there are five international biker gangs with chapters in the province — the Warlocks, Rebels, Loners, Bandidos and Hells Angels.

The Hells Angels are the only motorcycle club with support groups, which help expand territory. Often, this may include dealing drugs, collecting debts or intimidation.

Police across Alberta have been concerned the economic downturn will lead to increased violence in Alberta. With so many leaving the province or spending less money on vices, competing gangs become more protective over their territory.

Supt. Rob McCloy of the Wood Buffalo RCMP said that is a trend he has not seen in Fort McMurray since oil prices collapsed.

“We haven’t seen an increase,” he said. “It’s been status quo. Our crime rates have been fairly steady, even with some ups and downs.”