OFF THE WIRE
POLICE are bracing for outlaw bikie warfare as rival gxxgs poach members from other clubs in what is known as "patch overs". Victorian officers are on high alert for bloody bike battles, with gang shootings spiralling out of control across the country and fears of more reprisals as turf wars intensify.
The interstate bikie war has moved to Victoria, with a Melbourne-based Finks bikie gxxg member charged over the shootings of a man and woman at a Queensland shopping centre.
Echo Taskforce's Acting Insp David De Francesco said Victoria Police's specialised bikie unit was working with interstate police to monitor gxxg members.
"There is intelligence to suggest outlaw motorcycle gxxgs approach other members to patch them over to their club," he said.
Criminologist and bikie expert Dr Wayne Petherick said when a member wanted out, they usually paid cash or gave up two motorcycles.
But he said if the member had vital club intelligence, the price was much higher.
"It's the ultimate betrayal," he said.
"If the member is crossing over to the ultimate rival, that is enough to cause some serious hackle and anger felt towards that person.
"There is a very high risk of violence towards them. There is very little concern for their life and very little regard for innocent people caught out in the feud."
Dr Petherick said bikie gxxgs were feeding their membership base with Middle Eastern gang members and hard men from islander cultures to add power to their base and improve security.
Australian Crime Commission executive director Paul Jevtovic said the commission was working with agencies to combat threats posed by outlaw bikie gxxgs.
"Outlaw motorcycle gxxgs remain one of the most high profile manifestations of organised crime, and they have an active presence in all Australian states and territories," Mr Jevtovic said.
http://www.heraldsun.com.au/news/more-news/bikie-club-crossovers-could-spark-rival-gang-wars/story-fn7x8me2-1226348125839
