Comanchero motorcycle gang leader arrested on drug trafficking charges

The leader of Comanchero Motorcycle Gang, who has taken the designation of national vice-president, was arrested in Howick, Auckland, for alleged involvement in importing methamphetamine and cocaine. After years of investigation, the motorcycle gang leader is now set to face serious charges. The 36-year old man, has a history of importing methamphetamine and cocaine, with charges by the Auckland District Court and the Port of Tauranga in the span of a year.

The club, formed in 1968, is based out of Australia, South East Asia and New Zealand. The gang has been involved in violence and feuds with other biker gangs and is also part of the United Motorcycle Council of New South Wales. The club convened a national conference in 2009 to address problems related to 'bikie clubs', but with their poor public image, there was scepticism on their efforts.

There were three attempts at arrest of the Comancheros. The last senior Comanchero leader, who was not previously charged, has also been arrested. Every gang member now faces charges after a year-long investigation. Police Assistant Commissioner Investigations, Paul Basham, said, "The arrest represents a significant milestone in disrupting the gang’s criminal activity".


“It will be alleged that this man played a significant role in working across transnational organised criminal groups with these importations", added Basham.

The commissioner said that this is a significant milestone and represents years of relentless investigative work to disrupt and hold the Comancheros to account for criminal activity.

“There is no doubt that this sustained enforcement activity has had considerable impact on the gang’s ability to conduct their offending", he mentioned.

Investigations revealed that 137 charges were placed after three years of probing and another charge was against five individuals related to drug supply activities.