Motorcycle gang member planted pipe bomb under rival’s father’s van in ‘bizarre feud’

A biker gang member, Daniel Laponder, has been sentenced to nine years in prison for planting a pipe bomb beneath the work van of a rival’s father during an ongoing feud between the Blue Angels and Mad Dogs motorcycle clubs. The incident took place in Lennoxtown, East Dunbartonshire, on June 8, 2024.

Laponder, a former Blue Angels member who later started his own club, targeted David Rollo senior’s van, sparking a major incident that led to an emergency evacuation. The bomb, made of bottles, wires, and an electrical component with a battery, was found under the van and was deemed a viable pipe bomb that had been detonated.

Further investigations linked Laponder to the crime through DNA and fingerprints found on the bomb components. Police also discovered a shotgun in Laponder’s possession, along with items similar to those used in the bomb, during a search of his residence on a barge in Kirkintilloch.

During sentencing, Judge Lord Arthurson described the feud between the Blue Angels and Mad Dogs as “somewhat bizarre” and emphasized the need for a significant custodial sentence in this case. Laponder’s defence lawyer cited targeted attacks by the rival gang as a motive for his actions, expressing remorse on behalf of his client.

Additionally, a garage associated with the Mad Dogs Motorcycle Club was raided, uncovering remote firing systems similar to the one used in the bombing incident. Laponder has a history of previous convictions, including one for violence in England and a drink driving offence in 2022.

The incident highlights the dangerous consequences of gang conflicts and the impact they can have on individuals and communities. It serves as a reminder of the importance of law enforcement efforts to tackle organised crime and maintain public safety.

In light of this case, it is crucial for authorities to continue monitoring and addressing gang-related activities to prevent further incidents and ensure the security of the public. Gang violence can have devastating effects on society, and measures must be taken to disrupt and dismantle criminal organisations operating within communities.