THE ROLE OF OUTLAW MOTORCYCLE CLUBS IN ORGANIZED CRIMEWITH AN EMPHASIS ON MOTORCYCLE CLUBS IN THE NORDIC COUNTRIES

Abstract

Purpose: Outlaw motorcycle clubs are a specific type of organized criminal group known for their striking aesthetics and loyalty to the club, but also for their connection to various forms of criminal activity. Although many motorcycle clubs are dedicated to riding motorcycles for love and have a communal lifestyle, there are also those that operate as illegal organizations, participating in a range of criminal activities, from illegal drug trafficking, prostitution, violent crime, money laundering and racketeering. Outlaw motorcycle clubs are a priority issue in the world when it comes to serious crimes, in addition to cybercrime and illicit drug trafficking.

Lower-ranking members see the leadership of higher-ranking members in criminal enterprises as legitimate, and such criminal acts are interpreted as "club business". In recent years, many European countries have taken far-reaching measures to combat the criminal activities of motorcycle gangs. However, empirical investigations of those crimes involving outlaw motorcycle clubs are widely lacking. While outlaw motorcycle clubs are overrepresented in criminal enterprises where their activities contribute to social and economic harm, the precise involvement of the clubs themselves in these illegal activities is still unclear and under-analyzed.

This scientific work aims to investigate the phenomenon of motorcycle gangs in the context of organized crime, examining their structures, models of action, as well as the social and legal challenges they present. The paper will look at the history of outlaw motorcycle clubs, the evolution of their activities and the role they play in the broader framework of organized crime. It will also analyze the various legal and police approaches that have been used to combat this phenomenon, as well as the implications for public safety and society as a whole. The paper will also review the most famous American outlaw motorcycle clubs, such as the Hells Angels, etc.

Coordinates and methods in which this work will be carried out: What are the criminal acts most often committed by members of motorcycle clubs? What is their role in organized criminal groups? What are their characteristics? Historical method, analysis method, comparative method, comparative method, modeling method will be used in the work.

Result: Outlaw motorcycle clubs represent a significant threat in the fight against organized crime. The result of this scientific work shows the complex and multi-layered nature of motorcycle gangs as a form of organized crime. Research has revealed that motorcycle gangs have a strictly hierarchical structure with a strong sense of loyalty to the club and its members. This structure enables effective coordination and implementation of illegal activities, which makes them resistant to external pressures and makes law enforcement more difficult. Data collected indicate that motorcycle gangs often operate as closed communities, making information gathering and infiltration difficult. Their penchant for violence and intimidation further complicates efforts to curb their criminal activities.

Value: Through case analysis and the use of available literature, this paper will offer insight into how motorcycle gangs operate and what are the key characteristics that distinguish them from other forms of organized crime. Finally, recommendations for future policies and strategies that can help reduce the impact and spread of criminal activities associated with motorcycle gangs will be discussed. This work will also provide a good starting point for future research on motorcycle gangs as the topic is current and unexplored globally.