Illawarra escapes flare-up of bikie gang violence

An escalation in violence involving rival bikie gangs has not spilled into the Illawarra, according to the region's police.Southern Region operations manager Detective Inspector Bernie Ryan said there had been no activity to suggest similar violence would occur.NSW Police Commissioner Andrew Scipione yesterday announced the establishment of Strike Force Raptor to target feuds between motorcycle gangs.The Illawarra is home to two gangs - the Fourth Reich and the Rebels.Insp Ryan said while Strike Force Raptor would draw on metropolitan police, the region would be on standby to assist with additional officers.He was yet to receive the terms of reference outlining whether the Southern Region, which extends to the Victorian border, would be included in the operation.Wollongong police crime manager Detective Chief Inspector Joe Mura said Operation Ranmore, launched almost two years ago to tackle illegal bikie activity, was being pursued in the region. Initiatives included enforcing new laws banning gang members wearing club colours into pubs and clubs.