One of the newest gangs to hit New Zealand, Comancheros have officially been added to list of gangs whose insignia and patches are banned from being worn or displayed in government buildings.
The Comanchero Motorcycle Club are notorious across the ditch in Australia, and have been growing in numbers in New Zealand after 14 members have been deported back to New Zealand because of strict immigration rules.
Police Minister Stuart Nash said in a press release today that they ban on displaying the gang's patches follows advice from the Police that its members share a common identifying insignia and actively promote, encourage or engage in criminal activity.
"Its members are an organised crime group with global reach and networks. They are involved in the manufacture and supply of illicit drugs and use money laundering and commercial businesses to conceal the proceeds of crime.
"We need to make all efforts to disrupt the activities of this gang and others, and to reduce the harm they cause in our communities," said Mr Nash.
The ban includes court buildings, WINZ offices, libraries, schools, public hospitals and even public swimming pools.
"Restricting the display of gang patches, by itself, will not prevent the harm caused by organised crime groups.
"However when combined with other initiatives, such as enforcement and prevention, it will contribute to a safer community," said Mr Nash.
The ban cones into force on 1 June, bringing the total number of gangs with prohibited insignia to 35.
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