A notorious motorcycle gang could soon be forever labeled as a criminal organization in this province. Manitoba Justice officials filed an application to have the Hells Angels officially listed on a schedule of criminal groups.

A press release from the province said this is the first proceeding of its kind in North America.

The designation would eliminate the need to repeatedly prove in court that the Hells Angels is a criminal organization.

An independent review panel will be appointed to study the material and determine if the group meets the criteria.

If the panel and the Minister of Justice agree that the test has been met, the government can list the Hells Angels as a criminal gang under the Manitoba Evidence Act.