Comanches MC plans Finnish launch as police warn of tensions

Comanches MC is preparing to start operating in Finland, where police say the arrival of a new criminal group could increase competition and spark conflicts, Yle reports.

A social media account operating in the group’s name says the Finnish chapter is due to begin in November. Finland’s National Bureau of Investigation confirmed to Yle that it is aware of the possible launch.

Police have not commented on who is behind the Finnish chapter or how widely it may operate. Comanches uses a “1%” insignia, commonly associated with criminal motorcycle clubs. The group says the symbol marks members as people who do not follow society’s rules and laws.

The National Bureau of Investigation said new criminal actors can create tension and competition over criminal markets. It said conflicts between criminal groups, particularly organised crime groups, are always possible. The bureau declined to discuss its operational activities or any possible plans related to Comanches.

Founded in Denmark in 2023 on the remnants of the Satudarah gang, Comanches has also expanded into Sweden and sought a foothold in Norway. Its Swedish chapter has remained relatively small: a report published last spring by the research institute Acta Publica described an internal power struggle and competition with larger gangs. The chapter had around 20 members in 2024.

In Norway, authorities have intervened in the group’s expansion efforts. Acta Publica says 10 people linked to Comanches have been charged with participating in a criminal organisation. In Denmark, the group has been involved in a violent conflict with a street gang connected to the drug trade.

Finnish courts have previously ordered the dissolution of the motorcycle groups Cannonball and United Brotherhood, which were deemed organised criminal organisations. A case seeking to dissolve Bandidos is currently before the courts. Comanches is the second international motorcycle club to expand into Finland this year: Yle reported in March that Canadian-origin club Satan’s Choice had established a Finnish chapter.