NZ gang warns of fake Chinese insignia

A New Zealand street gang has warned the public against buying knock-off clothing sold on AliExpress – for their own safety.

Vendors on AliExpress are selling iron-on patches and T shirts bearing the Mongrel Mob emblem, and purchasers who choose to wear them could find themselves targeted by members of the gang or rival factions, according to an Otago Daily Times report. While still largely focused on New Zealand, the gang’s membership has expanded into Australia and more recently Canada, and has been linked to organised crime activity.

The gang’s rules mean that only full members of the gang – known as ‘patched’ members – can wear the insignia. A New Zealand police spokesperson told ODT that “while it is not illegal to wear, buy or sell gang insignia, police would remind those who choose to wear it of their obligations under the relevant legislation and bylaws.”

At the time of writing, a search by SecuringIndustry.com on AliExpress yielded multiple listings citing Mongrel Mob, including T-shirts for around $15 and packs of four patches for $30. Insignia from other groups - including biker gangs the Mongols and Outlaws - was also available.