Three alleged Bandidos bikie gang members are accused of assaulting a 13-year-old boy as part of standover tactics used to try to wrest control of the drug trade on the Atherton Tablelands in far north Queensland.
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Police raided two homes in Atherton on Thursday morning, arresting three men aged 47, 24 and 27.
It's alleged the trio threatened and assaulted a man and his 13-year-old son, demanded money and the names of local drug dealers.
Detective Inspector Brendan Smith from Task Force Maxima said the men told their alleged victim they were taking over the drug business on the Tablelands, and would soon have back-up from Bandidos members from southern states.
"The circumstances of this matter provide a clear example of the serious crime committed by these crime gangs. In this case, they have threatened and assaulted persons, including children, in an effort expand their illegal enterprises," he said.
"Today's efforts have not only lead to the arrest of gang participants for serious offences, it has prevented the offenders from getting a foothold in the community and committing further crime."
The trio will face Mareeba Magistrates Court on Friday charged with multiple offences including extortion, assault of a child, deprivation of liberty and participating in a criminal organisation.
