Vagos signs down at biker clubhouse

Law enforcement is keeping a close eye on the situation after signage at the Vagos Motorcycle Club clubhouse at 285 Perry St. was recently removed – a possible indication that a new biker gang has taken over.

City police Insp. Larry Charmley said he could not confirm or deny a split among club members, but said “they’ve definitely taken down the signage.”

The large sign over a locked chain-link fence gate read “Vagos MC: Enter With Respect” and bore the club’s insignia of a demon on wheels.

CHEX-TV reported Tuesday it has learned of a fracture in the club that has resulted in several Vagos members leaving the property to join the Outlaws, who have reportedly moved in.

If there is in fact a changing of the guard, or another biker gang in town, Charmley said he is confident police will soon become aware of it.

 

Christmas lights decorate the Vagos Motorcycle Club at Park and Perry streets on Tuesday, Dec. 16, 2014. All Vagos signage has been taken down from the clubhouse. (Clifford Skarstedt/Peterborough Examiner/QMI Agency)

He noted the violence that can occur when there is more than one gang in town because each group wants its part of the territory.

These conflicts are concerning because, while biker gangs don’t usually want to draw attention to themselves, there is always the possibility that innocent people could get hurt.

“We’re definitely worried about any fighting that could occur,” Charmley said. “There’s definitely some concerns and that is why we continue to monitor the situation.”

Conflict between rival gangs is not new to the city. Charmley cited the violence that erupted a few year ago as a result of a club fracture - a case that is still before the courts.

The 2012 split resulted in a bitter rivalry between the Vagos and Loners that came to a head when a former Loners member was allegedly attacked on the rail tracks near Park St. down the street from the Loners clubhouse.

City police, who work closely with the OPP biker enforcement unit, encourage anyone who lives in the area of the clubhouse to report any suspicious activity, Charmley said.

More: http://www.thepeterboroughexaminer.com/2015/02/04/vagos-signs-down-at-biker-clubhouse