Mongols bikie heavyweight Nick 'The Knife' Forbes has been remanded in custody in the Northern Territory over an alleged assault at a Top End nightclub with a rival gang member almost a decade ago.
The Gold Coaster, who is the alleged national president of the Mongols outlaw motorcycle gang, was arrested at Darwin Airport shortly after midnight on Tuesday.
Mr Forbes was wanted over the alleged assault involving a Hells Angel eight years ago and for failing to appear in court in 2015.
He was accompanied to Darwin by his lawyer, Michael Gatenby, who told the ABC Mr Forbes had begun arranging to surrender to police last week and had notified the court he would appear.
Mr Gatenby said the airport arrest was "over the top" and only due to "Mr Forbes's notoriety".
"He made the decision to travel to the Northern Territory to surrender himself as he wanted to start a new chapter," Mr Gatenby said.
"The intention is to contest the charge."
The assault allegedly occurred at a bar in the Top End in 2014.
It is understood Mr Forbes apologised to members of the public who witnessed his arrest overnight.
He was denied bail in the Darwin Local Court today after being charged with aggravated assault and engage in violent conduct.
It is understood the Mongols National Run will also take place in Darwin this weekend.
Northern Territory Police released a statement that said officers were aware the group was currently gathering in Alice Springs in preparation for the national run.
"The Mongols OMCG plan to ride from Alice Springs to Darwin this week and are expected to arrive in the Top End on Friday afternoon," the statement read.
"Motorists using the Stuart Highway between Alice Springs and Darwin can expect to see large numbers of motorcycles riding in groups."
Police in the area have launched an operation "to ensure the Mongols' activities are closely monitored".
