Australia, Police tackle increased bikie activities

OFF THE WIRE
Victoria Police have stepped up their efforts to tackle outlaw motorcycle gangs, because of increased activities in the state.

The Deputy Police Commissioner, Sir Ken Jones, says bikies have infiltrated the liquor, security and brothel industries.

He says bikie numbers in the state have increased by about 1,000 in the past three years.

"We know from bitter past experience that they get involved in various forms of organised crime," he said.

Deputy Police Commissioner Jones says police will step-up efforts to tackle the problem and is happy with the powers available to them.

"I think we have a really good suite of powers. We have some powers in the state that they don't have anywhere else, particularly regarding coercive questioning," he said.

"Powers aren't the issue. It's just that our response needs to be as good as it can be and we're determined to do that."

Deputy Commissioner Jones rejects suggestions that gangs are flooding into the state because of tougher anti-bikie laws in South Australia and New South Wales.

"That's a matter for the politicians and government. Our job is to enforce the laws of Parliament, whatever they give to us," he said.

"It's become more of an attractive lifestyle for some people and for those who engage in it. But those involved in criminality of any sort we will target them."

Senior police will reportedly meet next week to discuss their plan to tackle the problem.