Comanchero Gang’s bikes turned into scrap metal
Six of the Comanchero motorcycle gang’s distinctive Harley-Davidson motorbikes have been turned into scrap metal in a first of its kind court order.
The bikes were seized in April 2019 as part of major organised crime operation Operation Nova, but weren’t destroyed until Friday.
The gold-plated Harley-Davidson motorcycles, along with numerous personalised plates, were estimated to be worth $96,000.
Proceeds from any scrap metal sales will go toward a consolidated fund, a spokesperson said.
According to Police Commissioner Andrew Coster, the application was the first of its kind.
“It is our view that the design of the motorcycles, and the personalised plates, are very distinctive and are exclusively linked to the Comancheros,” Coster said.
“It is highly likely both the bikes and licence plates would end up back in the hands of the Comancheros.
“It will be of some reassurance to Police and the public that this decision means these bikes, purchased with the proceeds of crime, will not end up back in the wrong hands,” he said.
A further $2.6 million of assets, excluding the motorcycles, were seized as part of Operation Nova.
Other assets seized include $402,360 in cash, four Range Rover Sports, one RollsRoyce Wraith, high-end Mercedes-Benz and Audi vehicles, designer products and jewellery and property in Auckland.
The operation also saw 18 people charged with a range of serious offences, including importing methamphetamine, possession of cocaine for supply, money laundering and unlawful possession of firearms.