Police National Anti-Gangs Squad seizes more than $9.2m in cash since 2014 launch
A POLICE squad targeting gangs has seized more than $9.2 million in cash and 5700 illegal firearms and parts, the vast majority in Victoria, since launching in 2014.
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A POLICE squad targeting gangs has seized more than $9.2 million in cash and 5700 illegal firearms and parts, the vast majority in Victoria, since launching in 2014.
The National Anti-Gangs Squad (NAGS) operations have also resulted in the seizure of more than 170 kilograms of methamphetamine.
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The squad is led by the Australian Federal Police, which works with its state counterparts.
In Victoria the NAGS has made 162 arrests since March 2014 while more than 5200 firearms and $673,200 cash was seized.
NAGS strike teams and liaison officers across Australia have been working with partner agencies to arrest more than 1050 offenders who have faced more than 3365 charges.
Minister for Justice Michael Keenan said Outlaw Motorcycle Gang leaders were being driven from Australia as they felt the pressure exerted by law enforcement.
“These gangs are violent criminals who strike fear in the community — both with their presence, and with the flow-on effects of the illicit drug trade they oversee,” Mr Keenan said
“The Coalition Government first introduced the NAGS partnership model in 2013, led by AFP in partnership with state and territory police.”
Mr Keenan told the Herald Sun NAGS was disrupting illicit activity by gangs across the country.
“These disruption activities are being felt by the OMCGs, and in response, law enforcement officials are reporting senior OMCG leaders are fleeing overseas to escape the tightening hold on their activities,” Mr Keenan said.
“These criminals then attempt to direct their criminal syndicates from foreign jurisdictions, believing themselves beyond the reach of Australian law enforcement.”
He said NAGS was sharing intelligence with foreign law enforcement agencies to address overseas risk.
“This will help our partners counter the threat of expanding OMCG activity in their country,” Mr Keenan said.
“Through the AFP’s international network, the work of the NAGS will extend beyond borders and help disrupt OMCG activity on a global scale.”