Taskforce Maxima, Queensland Police Service’s (QPS) specialized unit, has achieved a significant milestone by marking its 10,000th arrest in the span of 10 years. The taskforce, established in 2013, focuses on investigating criminal activities associated with Outlaw Motorcycle Gangs (OMCGs) and has made a substantial impact on enhancing community safety in Queensland. This achievement highlights the commitment and dedication of Taskforce Maxima in combatting the unlawful and violent influence of OMCGs.
Over the course of a decade, the relentless efforts of Taskforce Maxima have resulted in more than 31,000 charges against alleged OMCG members and their associates. The unit has been instrumental in disrupting, deterring, and investigating serious gang-related offenses, including drug and firearm trafficking, as well as violent crimes. By utilizing both high-visibility operations and covert methods, Taskforce Maxima has effectively dismantled OMCG attempts to evade the law.
OMCGs operate under violent and manipulative regimes, aiming to exert power and generate profits while putting innocent bystanders, associates, and rivals at risk. Taskforce Maxima’s mission extends beyond enforcement. They have developed the OMCG Exit Program, which supports members and associates in leaving the grip of organized crime and transforming their lives. To date, the program has assisted 53 former-gang members in severing ties with 10 different OMCG groups. Additionally, Taskforce Maxima offers educational programs designed to counter OMCG recruitment efforts.
Minister Mark Ryan expressed his admiration for Queensland Police Service and Taskforce Maxima, commending their commitment to protecting Queenslanders. Thousands of gang members have faced court due to the taskforce’s actions, resulting in numerous criminal offenses being disrupted. Celebrating a decade of fighting against the violent crimes associated with Outlaw Motorcycle Gangs is a remarkable accomplishment, further emphasizing the ongoing efforts of Taskforce Maxima to eliminate and prevent organized crime.
Assistant Commissioner Katherine Innes acknowledged the indispensable role of Taskforce Maxima in relentlessly pursuing gangs, investigating serious crimes, dismantling recruitment attempts, and assisting members in transitioning away from a life of crime. The dedication and tireless efforts of this specialized team contribute significantly to the safety of the general public and the prevention of OMCG infiltration into Queensland communities.
Taskforce Maxima was the first of its kind in Australia and remains the longest-standing specialist OMCG unit nationally. Its success has been further supported by the Serious and Organised Crime Legislation Amendment Act 2016, which established a new organized crime regime for Queensland by incorporating recommendations from various reviews on organized crime.
Taskforce Maxima’s milestone achievement is a testament to their unwavering commitment to protecting Queensland communities and their relentless pursuit of a Queensland safe from the influence of Outlaw Motorcycle Gangs.
