Vic: Police arrest eight in murder probe
By Edwina Scott and Greg Roberts26 Nov 2008 6:02 PM
MELBOURNE, Nov 26 AAP - A senior member of the Rebels bikie gang is among eight people arrested over the shooting murder of a rival Bandidos bikie.
Homicide squad detectives raided six properties around Geelong on Wednesday as part of their investigation into the death of Bandidos' bikie Ross "Rosco" Brand.
Detectives also seized exhibits including two cars that matched vehicles caught on camera at the crime scene, a sawn-off shotgun, a crossbow and powder and tablets, Homicide squad Detective Inspector Steve Clark told reporters on Wednesday.
Mr Brand, 51, was gunned down outside the Bandidos' clubhouse in Geelong on October 22.
Det Insp Clark would not say whether he felt police had bikie gangs under control around Geelong.
"All of the people arrested are connected in some way to bikie gangs, the Rebels and Death Before Dishonour gangs," he said.
"Some are patched-up members and some are associates.
"It's clear we're making progress in the investigation. I hope it gives most of the people in Geelong some comfort. If there are any incidents down there we have the resources and are ready to respond."
A senior Rebels member arrested today was the club's "sergeant-at-arms".
The 34-year-old Geelong man was arrested by police outside the Rebels clubhouse in North Geelong on Wednesday afternoon.
The weapons and powder were seized from a home in nearby Ceres where a 72-year-old man and a 61-year-old woman were also arrested.
A busy day for investigators began early on Wednesday when police intercepted and seized two cars they believe are connected to Mr Brand's murder and were captured on CCTV footage released by police this month.
A 21-year-old Geelong man driving a white 1990 dual Hilux ute was arrested on Wednesday morning and a 25-year-old Ocean Grove man was also arrested at his home where a white Hyundai Terracan station wagon was seized.
"We've seized vehicles that are the same type of vehicles that we are looking for. We are awaiting for some forensic analysis in order to be able to prove that that's the vehicle responsible," Det Insp Clark said.
"We are investigating the murder of Ross Brand and are hoping the people in custody move us closer to actually charging someone with that murder.
"Outlaw motorcycle gangs are not renowned for cooperating with police. It's not unknown for a whole rang of people not to speak to police but we'll assess what it is they've got to say."
A 20-year-old man, 52-year-old man and 19-year-old man were also arrested around Geelong and a car canopy was also seized.
No charges have been laid yet and Det Insp Clark would not rule out further arrests.
"A high standard of proof is required. Who knows? That (further arrests) may occur," he said.
