A large traffic operation is underway at Penguin to monitor members of the Bandidos Outlaw Motorcycle Gang taking part in their National Run today.
Commander Jonathan Higgins said that police activity included vehicle checks, targeted drug and alcohol testing, and monitoring for anti-social and criminal behaviour.
“A major focus will be high visibility traffic operations to ensure the large number of motorcycles travelling together through towns and cities causes the least amount of disruption to motorists and pedestrians,” Commander Higgins said.
“Tasmania Police has rostered on a significant number of additional officers to assist with this operation. As is the case in other jurisdictions during OMCG National Runs, other enforcement agencies will send OMCG specialist officers, including officers from the National Anti-Gangs Squad, to Tasmania to assist with enforcement and information gathering.”
Commander Higgins said that Tasmania Police had developed a comprehensive operational strategy to respond to plans by Outlaw Motorcycle Gang, the Bandidos, to hold a National Run in Tasmania.
The Bandidos have scheduled activities in Tasmania from 18 – 26 November. They are conducting their National Run between Devonport and Burnie, leaving Devonport at 10.30am.
Tasmania Police has been aware of the plans for several months.
“We have been liaising with the Bandidos to ensure their members understand that they will be closely monitored, and that criminal and anti-social behaviour will not be tolerated in our state,” said Commander Jonathan Higgins.
“The OMCG members are on notice in our jurisdiction. We will not tolerate criminal activity, anti-social or intimidating behaviour, or breaches of our traffic laws.
“These groups are not welcome here. In recent years, members and associates of these groups have been charged with significant offences including drug trafficking and firearms crimes.
“Tasmania Police is continuing to work with Government to further disrupt their activities by creating an unwelcome environment for OMCGs in Tasmania,” said Commander Higgins.
In the meantime, communities can be assured there will be a strong police presence actively monitoring the activities of OMCG members while they are here.
The Bandidos is an organised crime gang and they will be under very close police scrutiny while in Tasmania.