In a worrying trend, Canberra has witnessed a series of shootings linked to outlaw motorcycle gangs (OMCGs), signaling what police describe as a “resurgence” of organized crime in the Australian Capital Territory (ACT). Authorities have connected at least six of the eight shootings reported this year to these notorious groups.
Detective Superintendent Matthew Heather of ACT Policing highlighted that four gangs—Finks, Rebels, Comancheros, and Hells Angels—are actively operating in the region, with more than 40 known members and associates. These gangs are not only involved in local crime but are also engaging with interstate criminal networks, exacerbating the situation.
Escalation After a Period of Calm
The recent spike in gang-related activities follows a period of relative calm. According to police records, there was only one gang-related shooting in the previous year. However, this year has seen a significant increase in such incidents, reflecting a broader national trend of rising demand for illicit drugs post-COVID.
Superintendent Heather noted, “This increase of OMCG activity cannot be attributed to any one factor, but in the ACT, like the rest of the country, there is a demand for illicit drugs.” He emphasized that these gangs are involved in a range of criminal activities, including drug trafficking, money laundering, and intimidation.
“OMCGs are serious and organized crime networks who have a significant criminal footprint Australia-wide,” said Detective Superintendent Matthew Heather.
Historical Context and Police Response
The resurgence in gang activity comes after a significant decline following the establishment of Taskforce Nemesis in response to rising crime between 2015 and 2020. This taskforce was instrumental in reducing OMCG activities, leading to its disbandment in mid-2022. However, with the recent uptick in gang meetings and activities, a new taskforce, Taskforce Invidia, was formed to tackle the issue.
Anthony Morgan, a research manager at the Australian Institute of Criminology, explained that the illicit drug market experienced a “massive lull” after 2020, which has now rebounded, potentially fueling the recent surge in violence and conflict.
“It might give you a clue as to why we’ve seen, if we have seen a surge in violence and conflict as those markets start to rise again, not just in the ACT, but nationally,” Morgan stated.
Gang Culture and Recruitment
OMCGs are known for their strong recruitment drives, often targeting individuals seeking camaraderie and a sense of belonging. However, Morgan noted a shift in club culture, with many former members leaving due to a perceived erosion of loyalty and an increased focus on profit and notoriety.
“They described this erosion of loyalty. They were all talking about this changing culture, which focused a lot less on brotherhood and a lot more on profit and notoriety,” Morgan revealed.
Recruitment often occurs in prisons, where clubs seek to bolster their numbers. Morgan pointed out that a significant portion of older members have recent violent or organized crime offenses, highlighting the ongoing criminal nature of these groups.
Future Implications and Law Enforcement Efforts
ACT Policing is preparing for the arrival of a fifth gang, the Bandidos, who are set to hold a meeting in Canberra in mid-November. This gathering will be closely monitored by police, who are committed to maintaining community safety and addressing any criminal activities swiftly.
Despite the challenges posed by OMCGs, Superintendent Heather assured the public that ACT Policing is focused on disrupting and dismantling these criminal networks. The police continue to work with the ACT government on legislation to aid in the investigation and disruption of serious crimes associated with these gangs.
“I can reassure the ACT community that despite the challenge OMCGs pose, ACT Policing continues to focus efforts and work with our partners to detect, disrupt, deter and dismantle their criminal activities,” Superintendent Heather affirmed.
As the situation evolves, Canberra’s law enforcement remains vigilant, adapting strategies to counter the resurgence of organized crime and ensure the safety and security of the community.
