HELLS ANGELS LIKELY REGROUPING, SAY POLICE

Manitoba's Hells Angels chapter is down but not out in the wake of
two elaborate undercover police stings that jailed several members or
associates and has others awaiting trial.

The double-whammy of projects Defence and Drill -- targeting drug
trafficking and other crimes -- was a considerable hit to local
members and associates of the world's most notorious biker gang.

"They've pulled in their horns a bit. They're obviously licking their
wounds, but they haven't stopped," said Staff Sgt. Mike McTaggart of
the Winnipeg RCMP criminal intelligence section. "Will they
resurrect? Without a doubt. There's always people who want to join the Angels."

In all, 31 people were arrested in Project Defence in February 2006
and Project Drill last December.

Four were members of the Manitoba Hells Angels chapter. They include
former presidents Ernie Dew and Dale Donovan.

There has been speculation the shakeup created by the undercover
projects, orchestrated by the Manitoba integrated organized crime
task force, led to a struggle for control within the province's drug trade.

There has been instability and gang-related violence in Thompson,
including homicides and shootings.

Sgt. Pat Olson, an RCMP officer with the province's integrated gang
intelligence unit, said some gangs see Manitoba as an open market for
drug trafficking.