Top End bikie Brandt Graham recovering in hospital after police dog bite during re-capture

A Top End bikie who allegedly escaped custody for five days is recovering in hospital after being bitten by a police dog during his dramatic re-capture, a court has heard. Brandt Graham allegedly jumped the dock at the Darwin Local Court before running away from G4S security guards mid-hearing last week, sparking a five-day manhunt. The 44-year-old was arrested on Tuesday and is now facing fresh charges including escaping lawful custody and possessing a prohibited drug and a prohibited weapon.

Court documents previously obtained by the ABC reveal Mr Graham is a patched member of outlaw motorcycle gang the Mongols. Defence lawyer Eve Weir told the Darwin Local Court on Friday her client could not attend court in person as he was still in hospital four days after "an incident … involving a police dog".

On Tuesday, police said Mr Graham was re-arrested by members of the dog squad after officers intercepted a car driving in the Palmerston suburb of Durack, outside of Darwin. Body-worn footage shows Mr Graham attempt to make another dash for freedom before police patrol dog Cheeko tracks him down through bushland. The shirtless man can then be seen lying on the ground as Strike Force Trident officers detain him. Mr Graham was then photographed covered in bloodied wounds with his pockets emptied, while police frog-marched him out of the bush.

At the time of his arrest, officers allege he was found in possession of a trafficable quantity of methamphetamine, a butterfly knife and cash. NT Police have confirmed the Mongols bikie was bitten during the ordeal, sustaining lacerations to both his shoulder and bicep. Mr Graham remains in hospital under the guard of corrective services officers. It is unclear if his injuries have required surgery.

The Mongols bikie member had already been charged with drug and firearm offences following his earlier arrest a week prior, over his alleged involvement in a large-scale drug supply ring operating across Darwin and East Arnhem Land. During Mr Graham's time on the run, police said they believed he was being helped by associates. So far, seven people have been arrested over outstanding warrants, breach of bail and drug-related offences. One of those people, a 26-year-old man, is accused of aiding and abetting.

Mr Graham's three separate matters are expected to return to court in August.