The Vagos Motorcycle Club, often called the “Green Nation” due to its signature green colors, is one of the largest and most prominent motorcycle clubs in the world. With a membership of over 4,000 and a stronghold in the Southwest United States, the Vagos have garnered attention for their vast network and controversial activities.
History and Origins of the Vagos Motorcycle Club
The Vagos Motorcycle Club was founded in 1957 in San Bernardino, California. What began as a small group of motorcycle enthusiasts evolved into a powerful organization with chapters across the United States and Mexico.
The club’s emblem features Loki, the Norse god of mischief, riding a motorcycle—a symbol that reflects their rebellious nature and willingness to challenge authority.
Territory and Membership
The Vagos Motorcycle Club primarily operates in the Southwest United States, with strongholds in states like California, Nevada, and Arizona. Their influence extends internationally, particularly along the Mexican border, where they coordinate operations.
Membership
With an estimated 4,000 members, the Vagos are one of the largest motorcycle clubs globally. Their extensive network allows them to maintain a strong presence in various regions and expand their influence.
Key Activities and Controversies
The Vagos Motorcycle Club has been linked to several high-profile incidents and controversies.
Drug Smuggling Operations
One of the club’s primary activities is coordinating drug smuggling operations across the U.S.-Mexico border. Their strategic positioning in the Southwest enables them to facilitate these activities effectively.
Assassination of a Hells Angels Member (2011)
In 2011, tensions between the Vagos and the Hells Angels escalated when a Vagos member was implicated in the assassination of a Hells Angels member in Nevada. This incident highlighted the rivalry between the two clubs and brought significant media attention.
Booby Trap Accusations
In California, the Vagos were accused of setting booby traps to target police officers. These allegations led to a high-profile defamation lawsuit against a local police department, which the Vagos won. This legal victory reinforced their ability to push back against accusations and protect their reputation.
Vagos and Their Relationship with Other Clubs
The Vagos Motorcycle Club has a contentious relationship with several other motorcycle clubs, including the Hells Angels. Rivalries often stem from territorial disputes and competition over activities such as drug trafficking.
Despite these rivalries, the Vagos have built alliances with other clubs to strengthen their presence and counter external threats.
Legacy and Perception
The Vagos Motorcycle Club occupies a unique position in motorcycle culture. While often viewed through the lens of controversy, they maintain a strong sense of brotherhood and loyalty among their members. Their size and influence make them a formidable force in the Southwest and beyond.
The club’s ability to navigate legal challenges and maintain its operations has only added to its mystique, solidifying its place in the world of motorcycle clubs.
Conclusion
The Vagos Motorcycle Club is one of the most powerful and controversial motorcycle clubs in the world. From their beginnings in California to their expansion across the Southwest and Mexico, the Vagos have demonstrated resilience and adaptability.
While their activities often place them at odds with law enforcement and rival clubs like the Hells Angels, their legacy as a dominant force in motorcycle culture remains intact.
For more insights into motorcycle clubs, explore our articles on groups like the Hells Angels or the Outlaws Motorcycle Club, which share similarly impactful roles in the culture.
