Calgary police are warning the public to expect an influx of “outlaw motorcycle gang members” in the city this weekend, including the Hells Angels, as they attend a local event.
The Calgary Police Service (CPS) said they will be partnering with the RCMP to monitor the motorcycle clubs and make sure they abide by the law.
“We do not anticipate an increased risk to public safety, however, there is always a potential for violence associated with organized crime and motorcycle gangs,” police said in a news release.
In a Thursday news conference, Acting Supt. Joe Brar said the event is the 20th anniversary of the Calgary Hells Angels chapter.
“We have reached out to them to let them know that we expect them to have an enjoyable and lawful event and they’ve relayed back that their wishes are the same,” he said. “We’re expecting Hells Angels Motorcycle Club members from across Canada and their support clubs to be attending.”
Brar said motorcycle clubs host several events across Canada every year and the gatherings have been historically held without incident.
“In 2014 we had a similar event with the Southland chapter. It was their five-year anniversary party, and about 300 members attended and there was no real issues.”
He said club members have already begun travelling to Calgary for the event, which is expected to run from Friday until Sunday.
“The information that we have suggests that they’ll be hosting several social events at their clubhouse,” he said. “Aside from that, they may visit local establishments, go on motorcycle rides and all sorts of activities.”
Anyone who spots suspicious activity in Calgary this weekend potentially related to motorcycle gangs is asked to call Calgary police or contact Crime Stoppers.
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