AUSTRALIA - Snake seized in Sydney bikie gang raid

OFF THE WIRE
A jungle python has been seized, along with an improvised explosive, in a raid on an alleged bikie gang house in western Sydney.

About 6.30am (AEST) on Tuesday police searched a home at Ropes Crossing where they found the snake and the explosive device, along with drugs, a firearm and ammunition.

They arrested two men, aged 36 and 26, who are allegedly members of the Rebels outlaw motorcycle gang.

The explosive device was rendered safe by specialist police in a nearby park while the two men were taken to the police station and charged with firearms offences.

Detective Inspector Grant Healey said the arrests were only the beginning.

"This was a significant investigation targeting persons allegedly involved in crimes involving violence," he said in a statement on Tuesday.

"We are not backing down from those who choose to break the law. We won't put up with it, and the community shouldn't have to either."

The two men were refused bail to appear in Penrith Local Court on Tuesday.

http://news.smh.com.au/breaking-news-national/snake-seized-in-sydney-bikie-gang-raid-20110531-1fe1e.html