Canberra Police Crack Down on Bandidos Gang, Seizing Drugs and Rare Collectibles

In a significant operation, ACT Policing has arrested seven alleged members of the Bandidos outlaw motorcycle gang in connection with a major drug trafficking investigation. The arrests were made following searches at seven locations and two vehicles across Canberra, leading to the seizure of a range of illegal items including cocaine, firearms, and even Pokémon cards.

The investigation, which began in early 2025, has revealed the gang's involvement in trafficking over 70 kilograms of cocaine with an estimated street value exceeding $10 million. Among those arrested is a 36-year-old man found with a stash of drugs, $500,000 in cash, and a glock-style handgun at his residence in Taylor.

Details of the Arrests

Police executed a series of search warrants over the past two weeks, starting with the home in Taylor on August 26. Following this, another search in Throsby yielded vials of suspected GHB and anabolic steroids. In a separate incident, officers stopped a Mitsubishi Triton in Belconnen, arresting a 31-year-old driver who was allegedly operating the vehicle while disqualified. His vehicle was found to contain suspected cocaine and a gel blaster firearm.

Seizures and Charges

In a surprising twist, during the search of a Toyota Landcruiser, police uncovered several valuable items including Pokémon cards, precious gems, and vintage comic books. A ledger detailing assets and liabilities exceeding $3.3 million was also found. The investigation has resulted in the seizure of four vehicles as proceeds of crime, along with various weapons such as batons and tasers.

Detective Acting Inspector Mark Battye emphasized the seriousness of the operation, stating that these gangs are not mere motorcycle enthusiasts but organized criminals engaged in violent and greedy drug trafficking operations. The police remain committed to dismantling such organized crime networks within the community.

Source: www.abc.net.au