Kidnapping for ransom arrest and extradition
Detectives from Taskforce Maxima are today extraditing a 35-year-old man from South Australia on kidnapping for ransom, extortion and assault charges.
A 37-year-old man, an alleged ex-president of the Lone Wolves Criminal Gang, has also been charged with kidnapping for ransom.
It will be alleged further investigations into an incident which occurred on the Gold Coast on March 10, 2013 identified additional offenders and offences.
It will be alleged a 24-year-old man was held against his will, assaulted, and threatened with further violence if money was not paid.
It will further be alleged a relative of the man was required to supply a sum of money to the offenders in order to secure his release.
Detectives are investigating the possibility more victims were assaulted and extorted, and are urging anyone with information in relation to this to contact Taskforce Maxima or Crime Stoppers.
Detective Inspector Brendan Smith of Taskforce Maxima said: “This is another clear example of the criminal behaviour of gang members. They prey on the victim’s weaknesses and then use threats and intimidation to make victims both comply with their demands, and also discourage them from complaining to authority.
“In this matter, police will allege the victim’s mother was required to raise the money and deliver it in the middle of the night. They were both extremely fearful about what would happen had she not paid the money.”
The 35-year-old man will face the Brisbane Magistrates Court tomorrow.
The 37-year-old man will face the Southport Magistrates Court on June 4.
Investigations are ongoing.
If you have information for police, contact Policelink by providing information using the online suspicious activity form 24hrs per day at www.police.qld.gov.au/reporting.
Report crime information anonymously via Crime Stoppers. Call 1800 333 000 or report online at www.crimestoppersqld.com.au.
