Sault police will be keeping a close eye on outlaw motorcycle gangs this weekend — and they’re warning the public that “gang-related clothing or paraphernalia will not be permitted” at local establishments or Rotaryfest activities.
Amid escalating violence among some outlaw motorcycle groups in Ontario, the Sault Ste. Marie Police Service issued a press release this morning alerting locals about “an expected increased presence” of biker gangs in the city today and tomorrow.
Tonight, officers are conducting traffic enforcement in the city's east end, speaking to motorcyclists as they arrive in the city via Highway 17.
“Members of the SSMPS and the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) Biker Enforcement Unit (BEU) will be monitoring large, public events, over the weekend to ensure the safety of all participants,” the news release says. “Ontarians are also reminded of the dangers of wearing gang-related clothing or paraphernalia. In addition to supporting illegal activities by purchasing these items, you may also put yourself at risk of being targeted by rival [biker gangs].”
Below is the full news release from police:
The Sault Ste. Marie Police Service (SSMPS) is advising community members of an expected increased presence of Outlaw Motorcycle Groups (OMGs) in the community from July 14 to 15, 2023.
Members of the SSMPS and the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) Biker Enforcement Unit (BEU) will be monitoring large, public events, over the weekend to ensure the safety of all participants.
Gang-related clothing or paraphernalia will not be permitted at local establishments or at Rotaryfest events. Officers will be monitoring and enforcing Trespass to Property Act on city property, and at any businesses that do not want gang activity on site.
Ontarians are also reminded of the dangers of wearing gang-related clothing or paraphernalia. In addition to supporting illegal activities by purchasing these items, you may also put yourself at risk of being targeted by rival OMGs.
The SSMPS works closely with the BEU to tackle the criminal activities of OMGs through an integrated, intelligence-led approach, which has resulted in numerous successful investigations.
Anyone with information regarding criminal activities perpetuated by OMGs should contact the SSMPS at 705-949-6300. If there is an emergency call 911. Should you wish to remain anonymous, you may call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS).