'Not just bike rides for fun,' B.C. anti-gang police say ahead of Nelson outlaw motorcycle gang presence

Experts say residents should be aware, but not assume there is an immediate threat Amber Wang · CBC News · Posted: Jun 12, 2026 AM EDT | Last Updated: June 12 Play article Estimated 3 minutes The audio version of this article is generated by AI-based technology. We are working with our partners to continually review and improve the results. Bikers ride south on the Don Valley Parkway, in Toronto, as part of a memorial for Hells Angels member Donny Petersen on July 21, 2022. (Evan Mitsui/CBC) Nelson police are warning residents to expect more than 50 outlaw motorcycle gang members in and around the city this weekend. In a Facebook post, the Nelson Police Department said members from numerous clubs and chapters are expected in the community and on area highways from Friday to Sunday.  Police said they will have a high visibility presence throughout the area and are working with other law enforcement and intelligence agencies to co-ordinate their response. “These are not just bike rides for fun. Behind the scenes, the story is completely different,” Sangha said. “This is to show off their power in the area.” Sgt. Sarbjit Sangha, a spokesperson for the Combined Forces Special Enforcement Unit of B. C. (CFSEU), said outlaw motorcycle gang rides are not the same as regular motorcycle club gatherings. “Outlaw motorcycle gangs, they are criminal organizations,” Sangha said. Sangha said police often watch for offences such as dangerous driving, drug possession, drug trafficking and firearm possession during similar rides. The RCMP says outlaw motorcycle gangs operate across Canada, with support clubs used in drug trafficking, violence and intimidation. Nelson Police Department announced in a Facebook post that more than 50 outlaw motorcycle gang members are expected in and around the city from Friday to Sunday. (Nelson Police Department/Facebook) Sangha said CFSEU is aware of the ride taking place in the Kootenay region, including the Nelson area. She said her unit supports local police through intelligence gathering, intelligence sharing and specialized enforcement resources when required. Sangha said the presence of outlaw motorcycle gang members does not automatically mean residents are in danger. “We can’t generalize the statement that there’s risk to the public,” she said. “That is the reason the policing partners, including us, we work together to prepare to make sure the public safety is maintained.” Bikers take part in a memorial gathering for Hells Angels member Donny Petersen, in Toronto, on July 21, 2022. (Evan Mitsui/CBC) Dr.