Anti-bikie police have arrested a high-ranking Hells Angels member at Sydney International Airport, alleging he breached strict orders imposed after a violent clubhouse 'takeover' in the Hunter region.
Airport Arrest Follows Alleged Clubhouse Takeover
A 57-year-old man, identified as a sergeant-at-arms for the Hells Angels outlaw motorcycle gang (OMCG), was taken into custody at Sydney airport on Wednesday, December 24. The arrest was conducted by detectives from Strike Force Benson, with assistance from the Australian Federal Police (AFP), at approximately 11am.
The charges stem from an escalating conflict between the Hells Angels and the Gladiators OMCG. The situation prompted police to launch Strike Force Benson in August 2025, a specialised operation led by the State Crime Command's Raptor Squad.
This police action was a direct response to an alleged forceful 'takeover' of a bikie clubhouse in Maitland during July 2025. In a bid to quell the rising tensions and prevent further violence, Raptor Squad officers issued a significant number of public safety orders.
Widespread Crackdown on Bikie Activity
Authorities issued 27 public safety orders against various alleged OMCG members and associates. These legally binding orders specifically prohibited them from attending the Maitland clubhouse in the aftermath of the takeover incident.
Despite this, police allege that warnings were ignored. Since August, more than 30 formal consorting warnings were issued to members of the Hells Angels motorcycle club. Investigations allegedly detected breaches of these orders across multiple states, including New South Wales, the Australian Capital Territory, South Australia, and Victoria.
These breaches are said to have occurred during various 'national runs' and events commemorating the Hells Angels' 50th anniversary celebrations. The crackdown has so far resulted in twelve Hells Angels members and associates being charged, with all matters remaining before the courts.
Charges and Ongoing Investigation
The 57-year-old man arrested at the airport was transported to Mascot Police Station following his detention. He was formally charged with the offence of habitually consorting with convicted offenders after having received an official warning.
The man was granted strict conditional bail and is scheduled to appear at a bail court in February 2026. Meanwhile, Strike Force Benson continues its investigations into the ongoing conflict and alleged consorting between the rival bikie gangs.
This arrest highlights the continued focus of NSW Police's Raptor Squad on disrupting the activities and networks of outlaw motorcycle gangs through targeted operations and the use of extensive consorting laws.
