Two senior Bandidos have been charged after a man was allegedly shot in the face in Samsonvale
Footage has been released showing the moment police raided properties near Brisbane, arresting two Bandidos bikie members over a failed hit. WATCH THE VIDEO
Crime & Justice
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TWO senior Bandidos bikie members have been charged over an alleged hit attempt north of Brisbane.
Police allege Kenneth James Whittaker, 45, and his 29-year-old accomplice, Sean Brian Irwin - who are the President and Sergeant of Arms of the North Brisbane Bandidos - attempted to kill a man in relation to an unpaid drug debt at Samsonvale on July 13.
The 37-year-old, who has been left with permanent injuries as a result of the alleged attack, did not initially seek medical attention in fear of repercussions from the bikie gang, Taskforce Maxima Detective Superintendent Roger Lowe said.
“Sometimes the victims are reluctant to come forward against these gangs out of fear,” he said.
“In this case there were security and safety concerns both by the victim and his family and his parents.”
Whittaker was charged with attempted murder while participating in a criminal organisation and dangerous conduct with a weapon likely to cause death of the victim.
Irwin were charged with attempted murder while at the time participating in a criminal organisation.
These charges carry a mandatory sentence under Queensland’s Serious and Organised Crime legislation.
Detectives from State Crime Command’s Organised Crime Gangs Group Taskforce Maxima
raided two properties in Samsonvale and Caboolture on Sunday.
Firearms, false identifications and dangerous drugs were allegedly found at the Caboolture property.
Police said a Taser, cannabis, and a car allegedly involved in the shooting were also found at the Caboolture address.
A large amount of Bandidos paraphernalia were seized from both properties.
A 21-year-old Samsonvale woman was charged with possess dangerous drug (amphetamine, diazepam, Subutex), possess restricted drugs (Ritalin), possess tainted property, possess category M weapon, possess explosive (ammunition). She is expected to appear in Pine Rivers Magistrates Court on February 3.
A 25-year-old man was also served with a Notice to Appear after he was located with cannabis at the Caboolture address.
The weekend’s search was a joint-operation between Taskforce Maxima, the Australian Federal Police and over 60 SES personnel and formed part of a five-month investigation targeting the outlaw motorcycle gang.
Over 25 people have been charged with a total of 165 offences in relation to the crackdown on the Bandido gang members.
“These people are not motorcycle enthusiasts, these people do not get together for social motorcycle rides,” Sup Lowe said.
Police expect to lay more charges following Sunday’s arrests.
Det. Sup. Lowe alleged the arrests reflected the nature of violence we see being used by OMCG nationwide.
“As police, we continually hear the personal stories of individuals who have been associated and recruited to these gangs and live to regret their choice. They find the real truth of these gangs involves threats, violence, crime, paranoia and the associated personal costs
Det. Sup. Lowe said the Organised Crime Gangs Group’s priority was the safety of Queenslanders.
“We will not tolerate any criminal activity, anti-social behaviour or violence by these gangs,” he said.
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