Bandidos gang investigations in Canberra

Police in the Australian Capital Territory (ACT) have conducted a series of raids targeting the Bandidos outlaw motorcycle gang in Canberra. In late August 2026, operations led to the seizure of $425,000 in cash, 5.5 kg of cocaine, and a 9 mm Glock pistol. Two men appeared in court, though defense counsel argued that connections to the gang were speculative due to a lack of insignia or motorcycles found during searches.

By early September 2026, the investigation expanded, with authorities charging four additional men. This ongoing probe, which began in early 2025, alleges the group has trafficked more than 70 kg of cocaine with a street value exceeding $10 million. Recent searches at seven premises and two vehicles resulted in the seizure of 4.6 kg of cocaine, over $600,000 in cash, a modified Glock 19, and various prohibited items including steroids, batons, and encrypted communication devices.

The crackdown follows concerns regarding the rising presence of outlaw motorcycle gangs in the ACT. In response to the situation, the ACT government has announced plans to draft legislation banning the public display of outlaw motorcycle gang insignia.