OFF THE WIRE
BIKIES are aggressively expanding their networks across Victoria, with one feared motorcycle gxxg taking over a rival's new chapter as it vies for dominance in the city. The Herald Sun has been told the Comanchero outlaw motorcycle club has ousted the Black Uhlans from a warehouse in Williamstown - the second time it has taken over premises since establishing itself in Melbourne almost three years ago.
It is believed the club has paid for a two-year lease on a warehouse in Techno Drive, an industrial area of the bayside suburb, and has reinforced the garage door.
Several parties have been held at the site, annoying residents.
Underworld sources say the Finks, with up to 30 members, wanted the site to extend its turf from Port Melbourne, but the Comancheros took over - forcing the Black Uhlans to strike a deal to get out.
It is believed the Finks are focusing on a new chapter in Melton.
It follows the Rebels, Australia's biggest club in numbers, opening new clubhouses in Croydon and Mildura - taking its presence to eight chapters across Victoria.
The Hells Angels have also been on a recruiting drive since the arrival of the Comancheros and Finks, in a bid to match them.
There have been simmering tensions between the Outlaws and Hells Angels in recent months, sources say.
The renewed activity has prompted fresh fears over violent tit-for-tat reprisals as the clubs continue their push into security, brothels and strip clubs.
The Herald Sun believes the Comancheros, with established chapters in South Melbourne and Hallam, consider Williamstown part of their turf.
Underworld sources say the Comancheros are the "alpha" outlaw bikie gxxg in Melbourne and have been heavily recruiting members since its arrival in late 2009. The club considers its turf the suburbs of Williamstown, South Melbourne, St Kilda and Carlton.
It also has a large area of Hallam branching out to Dandenong under its control, closing down smaller clubs in the area.
The Black Uhlans, a secretive club founded by convicted drug boss John Higgs, continues to have a presence in Coburg and has another chapter in Geelong.
http://www.heraldsun.com.au/news/true-crime-scene/bikie-turf-battle-spreads-across-state/story-fnat7jnn-1226397152517
