Two Men Charged in Western Sydney Vehicle Rebirth Scam

Raptor Squad detectives have charged two men following an investigation into the alleged rebirthing of stolen vehicles in Western Sydney’s Londonderry and Shane’s Park areas.

The operation, known as Strike Force Trefusi, was launched in August 2023 to investigate the activities of two individuals suspected of having ties to Outlaw Motorcycle Gangs (OMCG).

On Tuesday, October 10, 2023, at approximately 6 a.m., Raptor Squad officers, in collaboration with the Aviation Command and the Dog Squad, executed a search warrant at a rural property in Shane’s Park. There, they took a 42-year-old man into custody.

During the search of the property, law enforcement officers found four cars, 12 trail dirt bikes, nine mountain bikes, two box trailers, a commercial generator, a tractor, and a boat – all of which are believed to be stolen, police said.

In addition, officers discovered an identification printing machine, a key coder, numerous stolen license plates, car keys, a replica firearm, ammunition, two ballistic vests, mobile phones, a small quantity of drugs, and paraphernalia associated with the Bandidos OMCG.

Police found paraphernalia associated with the Bandidos OMCG.

Simultaneously, another search warrant was executed at an address in Londonderry. Officers attached to the Nepean Police Area Command, the Aviation Command, and the Dog Squad provided assistance, leading to the arrest of a 47-year-old man.

During the search of the Londonderry property, police found four cars, four trucks, two trailers, and a small excavator.

All items discovered at both locations have been seized and are set to undergo further forensic examination.

The two men were taken to Mt Druitt Police Station, where they were charges. The younger man was charged with seven offenses, including knowingly dealing with the proceeds of crime, knowingly participating in organized car rebirthing, two counts of stealing motor vehicles, entering enclosed land without lawful excuse, possessing ammunition without the necessary licenses, and failing to comply with a digital evidence access order.

Police allege vehicles were stolen to be rebirthed.

The older man has been charged with four offenses, including knowingly participating in organised car rebirthing, two counts of stealing motor vehicles, and entering enclosed land without lawful excuse.

Police will allege in court the men were using a stolen tow truck to steal other cars, trucks and small plant machinery for the purpose of rebirthing them with cloned number plates and on selling them for financial gain.

They were both refused bail to appear in Mt Druitt Local Court today. 

Anyone with information that may assist investigators is urged to contact Crime Stoppers: 1800 333 000 or https://nsw.crimestoppers.com.au. Police request that the public do not to report information via NSW Police social media pages.