A high-ranking member of the Rebels OMCG has been arrested as part of an investigation into alleged organised drug supply syndicates operating in NSW, NSW Police say.
Detectives from the State Crime Command’s Gangs Squad established Strike Force Kindra in December 2016 to investigate reports of an extortion involving members of the Rebels outlaw motorcycle gang (OMCG).
The investigation has been assisted by Australian Border Force (ABF) officers and detectives from the Australian Federal Police-led National Anti-Gangs Squad.
Their inquiries revealed a significant drug supply network, which included OMCG and other criminal groups planning large-scale importations of border-controlled drugs.
On Wednesday 28 June 2017, investigators arrested 11 men and two women – aged between 19 and 60 – who were charged with a variety of offences. They remain before the courts.
On Tuesday 8 August 2017, strike force investigators arrested five men – aged between 26 and 59 – who were charged with various offences related to the alleged importation of illegal tobacco and counterfeit cigarettes. They also remain before the courts.
Also during the investigation, Strike Force Kindra detectives and police from Wagga Wagga Local Area Command made inquiries into the alleged supply of methylamphetamine in the Riverina.
Following extensive inquiries, a 57-year-old man was arrested by Strike Force Raptor at a home at Junee Street, Temora, about 11am today.
Shortly after the arrest, a search warrant was executed at the home and at a hotel on Hoskins Street, Temora, where police seized amphetamine (speed), knives, handcuffs, documentation consistent with drug supply, and Rebels OMCG clothing.
The man, who is a high-ranking member of the Rebels OMCG, was taken to Temora Police Station, where he is assisting with inquiries.
As part of the operation, police also conducted two Firearm Prohibition Order searches at homes at Temora and Grogan.
During the searches, police located black powder, believed to be gun powder, and knuckle dusters.
Wagga Wagga Crime Manager, Detective Inspector Darren Cloake, said local police will continue to collaborate with specialist police units to target criminal activity impacting on the community.
"With the support of the Gangs Squad and Strike Force Raptor, we are taking a strong stance against OMCG and other criminal groups attempting to conduct illegal business in the region," Det Insp Cloake said.
"This operation demonstrates our commitment to reducing the availability of this poison and targeting those involved in importation, manufacture, and supply of all illicit drugs.
"I can’t over-emphasise the important role the community can play in reducing the impact of criminal activity in our townships.
"Information about criminal activity, including drug supply, can be reported to Crime Stoppers.
