Biker specialists from the Combined Forces Special Enforcement Unit plan to monitor two separate Hells Angels events on Vancouver Island and in the Okanagan this long weekend.

Sgt. Shinder Kirk said both CFSEU's Outlaw Motorcycle Gang Enforcement and Intelligence Units will back up local RCMP detachments in Ca...

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Sgt. Shinder Kirk said both CFSEU's Outlaw Motorcycle Gang Enforcement and Intelligence Units will back up local RCMP detachments in Campbell River and Kelowna.

Large gatherings of both B.C. and out-of-province Hells Angels are expected in each community for annual rides and parties.

"In the past, there have been incidents of violence particularly within the group, generally fuelled by alcohol," Kirk said Friday. "There has been the odd incident involving people in the community, again fuelled by alcohol."

While police are not expecting trouble, Kirk said they wanted to assure community members they are aware of both events and will ensure public safety.

"In many other cases, we have been able to prevent incidents from occurring by being at the scene or by monitoring this group," Kirk said. "It is not unprecedented to put out a public advisory."

Kirk said that having CFSEU's specialized units "working to pre-empt any potential for conflict is a key component of our strategy, one that goes a long way to ensuring the safety of British Columbians."