Raptor Squad detectives have charged a further four people as part of ongoing investigations into fraudulent bushfire claims.
In August last year, detectives from the State Crime Command’s Raptor Squad established Strike Force Fireant to investigate outlaw motorcycle gang (OMCG) members and associates, allegedly involved in obtaining fraudulent funds through the NSW Government’s Small Business Bushfire Support Grants program.
So far during the investigation, 20 people have been charged and remain before the courts.
Following extensive inquiries, Raptor Squad investigators arrested a further four people – two women and two men – at four properties in Raworth, Shalvey and Seven Hills from 6am today (Thursday 16 December 2021).
A 29-year-old Raworth woman – who is a Gladiators OMCG associate – was charged with five counts of dishonestly obtain financial advantage by deception. She was granted strict conditional bail to appear at Maitland Local Court on Wednesday 12 January 2022.
A 31-year-old woman and 26-year-old man – both from Shalvey – were each charged with dishonestly obtain financial advantage by deception. They were granted strict conditional bail to appear at Mt Druitt Local Court on Wednesday 19 January 2022.
During the execution of a search warrant at Seven Hills, officers located and seized a knife, cannabis, and white powder believed to be cocaine.
A 30-year-old man was arrested and charged with dishonestly obtain financial advantage by deception, possess prohibited drug, and supply prohibited drug (larger than indictable quantity).
He was granted strict conditional bail and is due to appear at Blacktown Local Court on Thursday 27 January 2022.
Investigations under Strike Force Fireant are continuing.
Anyone with information that may assist investigators is urged to contact Crime Stoppers: 1800 333 000 or https://nsw.crimestoppers.com.au. Information is treated in strict confidence. The public is reminded not to report information via NSW Police social media pages.
