Detectives have arrested nine people with links to outlaw motorcycle gangs (OMCG) during a two-day operation as part of investigations into fraudulent claims for federal funding intended for victims of the 2019-2020 bushfire disaster.
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In August this year, detectives from the State Crime Command's Criminal Groups Squad established Strike Force Fireant to investigate reports that members and associates of the Rebels OMCG were allegedly involved in obtaining unlawful grant money through a NSW Government grant scheme.
Following extensive inquiries, strike force investigators executed 11 search warrants across Greater Sydney and the Southern Highlands during a two-day operation on December 9 and 10.
The search warrants were executed at Box Hill, Colebee, Hill Top, Lalor Park, Mittagong, Marrickville, North Richmond, Sackville, Westmead, Wilberforce and Windsor.
Strike Force Raptor were assisted throughout the operation by the North West Region Operations Support Group and the Public Order and Riot Squad.
During the searches, officers seized documentation, mobile phones, SIM cards, laptops and electronic storage devices.
Investigators also seized cash, prescription medication and prohibited drugs including ecstasy, cannabis, methylamphetamine (ice) and steroids.
All items seized throughout the investigation will undergo further forensic examination.
During the two-day operation, nine people - six men and three women - were arrested.
A 31-year-old man, who is a member of the Rebels OMCG, was arrested at Hill Top about 6:15am December 9. He was taken to Moss Vale Police Station and charged with dishonestly obtain financial advantage by deception, knowingly deal with proceeds of crime intent to conceal, acquire ammunition subject to prohibition order and publish false misleading material to obtain advantage. He will appear at Moss Vale court on January 19, 2021.
Police will allege in court that a total of $700,000 in claims were made by the group through a NSW Government grant scheme, that resulted in grants being obtained to the value of $113,000.
Criminal Groups Squad commander, Detective Superintendent Robert Critchlow, said the crimes that had allegedly taken place were particularly heinous given the devastation suffered during last year's fire season.
"The bushfires completely destroyed thousands of homes, schools, community facilities and other critical infrastructure and tragically claimed the lives of 26 people, including three Rural Fire Service volunteers," he said.
"Sadly, the aftermath of this tragedy was many small businesses were severely affected and the federal government funding was established to provide them some relief.
"Unfortunately, there are segments of society who will choose to use situations such as these to gain personal financial advantage, and not surprisingly on this occasion the alleged offenders have ties to Outlaw Motorcycle Gangs.
"We are extremely pleased these individuals are now before the court and would like to thank Service NSW for their assistance with our investigation."
More to come.
