24 Jun 2020

Three arrested in relation to alleged Comanchero money laundering

4:25 pm on 24 June 2020

Three men have been arrested and over $650,000 in assets restrained in relation to a crimincal syndicate allegedly providing money laundering services for the Comanchero motorcycle gang.

Five high value luxury vehicles were restrained by police.

Five high value luxury vehicles were restrained by police. Photo: Supplied / NZ Police

The men aged 35, 36 and 37, included of a patched member of the Comanchero motorcycle gang, an associate of the gang and a motor vehicle dealer.

They were arrested at Auckland properties in Silverdale, Sandringham and Mt Wellington and face charges relating to money laundering and participating in an organised crime group.

Five high value luxury vehicles, including a rare limited edition Mercedes G-Class wagon worth over $250,000, were restrained.

"This operation began in late 2019 and looked into the alleged money laundering operations of the Comanchero motorcycle gang following on from Operation Nova," detective inspector Julian Rinckes said.

It will be alleged that one of those charged has assisted this group with their professional skills to conceal their proceeds of crime, he said.

"Those offering their professional services to organised criminal groups remain on notice that they are not immune to being held to account for their offending.

"Their involvement in illegal activity is coming to our attention and police will continue to hold those involved in this sort of offending to account."

The men are due to appear in the Auckland District Court on 24 June.

Police enquiries are continuing and they have not ruled out further arrests or charges.