Hells Angels and Gypsy Jokers bosses charged with money laundering after gang crime squad raid properties

The bosses of two high profile bikie gangs have been arrested after multiple police raids uncovered alleged money laundering activities, including $460,000 in cash. Benjamin Bernhardt — alleged president of the Hells Angels — was arrested more than four months after gang crime detectives started their probe. He was arrested on Wednesday and charged with money laundering and failing to give notice of a new address within seven days. An 18-year-old patched member of the Hells Angels was also charged with property laundering and three counts of possessing a prohibited drug. Both men will face Rockingham Magistrates Court on December 27. WA Police also arrested the 35-year-old president of the Gypsy Jokers after allegedly seizing $460,000 in cash during a raid at a home in Mount Helena. The arrest comes six months after the gang crime squad raided six Perth properties, including the Mount Helena home and the Gypsy Joker clubhouse in Maddington. The 35-year-old man was charged with money laundering and will face Midland Magistrates Court on January 3. Gang crime squad officer-in-charge Detective Senior Sergeant Anthony Thompson said property laundering often helped bankroll WA and interstate gangs. “Criminal activities, including illicit drug and firearm manufacturing and importation, bring significant harm to our community,” Det-Sen. Sgt Thompson said. “We are watching at all times and outlaw motorcycle gang members at all levels can expect our continued focus. Any unlawfully obtained property or cash will be subject to seizure. “WA Police will continue to concentrate investigations into senior office bearers of outlaw motorcycle gangs.”