SYDNEY, March 16 (Xinhua) -- The Australian government's National Anti-Gang Squad have released figures Thursday, stating they have arrested 1,000 offenders since the unit commenced operations in 2013.
"This is a very significant achievement in our fight against the scourge of Outlaw Motorcycle Gangs," Minister for Justice Michael Keenan told Xinhua.
"In addition, our joint federal and state squads have laid more than 3,100 charges nationally and seized more than 5,600 illegal firearms."
Since 2013, around 170 kilograms of methamphetamine, 660 kilograms of cannabis and 100,000 ecstasy tablets have been intercepted by the National Anti Gang Squad.
On the back of this success, the federal government has committed 39 million Australian dollars (30 million U.S. dollars) to extend and expand the squad's operations into 2019.
"This investment marks our resolve to continue to work closely with state & territory police to ensure the safety of the Australian community from the threat of serious and organised crime," Keenan said.
It's estimated that there are 40 motorcycle gangs operating in Australia with around 4,445 active members.
"They are organised criminal gangs that rely heavily on the illegal drug market to make a profit, having no regard for the pain and damage they leave in their wake," Keenan said.
"We remain focused on joint efforts to target and disrupt these criminal gangs and their desire to profit off the misery of our parents, children and friends."
