Clubhouse: Outlaw motorcycle gang the Bandidos have bought an old plaster warehouse at East Devonport to establish a new headquarters for its "probationary chapter".
An outlaw bikie club has purchased an old plaster warehouse at East Devonport for its new Mersey River chapter headquarters.
Assistant Police
Commissioner Tony Cerritelli
confirmed the police were aware
the Bandidos bought the
property at 122 David Street and
were busy converting it to a
clubhouse to establish more of a
presence here.
“Police are aware of building
works being undertaken and are
actively interacting with the
known persons involved,” Mr
Cerritelli said.
“The group recently progressed to a ‘probationary chapter’ (understood to have five members) following an event attended by national members, including the national president. This event was the subject of a police operation which resulted in associates being charged with driving offences and drug driving offences. We will continue to hold them to account for any criminal and unlawful activity.”
Mr Cerritelli said as the
building’s in a residential
area, the occupier needs to
comply with the same regulations
of licencing and noise as anyone
else. He said there is no legal
impediment to setting up OMCG
club houses. Mr Cerritelli said
OMCGs were involved in violence,
drugs, firearms and other
activities. “They are criminal
organisations with business
models designed to profit from
illegal activities, particularly
illicit drugs. The Bandidos OMCG
have been disrupted, but they
continue to attempt to establish
themselves in the area.”
Mr Cerritelli said local Bandidos and their associates were charged with offences including serious drug offences instigated by the Serious Organised Crime Unit last year.