We have destabilised the Hells Angels, and we are convinced that [the operation] will have an immediate effect on drug trafficking

Police spokesman

The early-morning swoops on homes and gang hangouts resulted in the arrests of more than 120 people and the seizure of weapons, drugs and millions of dollars in cash.

A police spokesman said the operation, the largest ever of its kind, could also affect affiliated biker operations in Ontario and Western Canada.

"We think today's operation will affect their operations elsewhere. It could also lead to arrests and raids outside Quebec," Corporal Leo Monbourquette said.

Charges ranged from gangsterism and drug trafficking to conspiracy to commit murder.

Those arrested are expected to be jailed in Montreal and are set to appear in court on Thursday morning.

Turf war

The raids were part of an escalating battle by Canadian police against biker gangs that police say have become networks involved in drug trafficking and other crime.

Quebec police say drug trade turf wars between the Hell's Angels and a rival group, the Rock Machine, are to blame for at least 158 murders, 169 attempted murders and the disappearances of 16 other people.

Federal laws that make it illegal to belong to an organised crime gang have been used to convict four Rock Machine members, and 13 members of the Hell's Angels are on trial in a similar case.

The Rock Machine recently joined the Texas-based Bandidos, expanding Canada's biker rivalry.

Widespread network

Police believe the Hell's Angels have about 80 members in six Quebec chapters and the Bandidos 30 members in two chapters.

In addition, less powerful gangs working with the Hell's Angels or Bandidos handle tasks such as collecting money from drug dealers, according to police.

Bikers from the puppet gangs become Angels or Bandidos only after several years of earning trust and building drug rings of their own, police say.