In Mormon’s first introduction of the Gadianton conspiracy (Hel. 2), he described the practices as part of his narrative. For example, the gang members entered into a covenant (Hel. 2:3), had secret signs of recognition (Hel. 2:7), and engaged in robbing, plundering, and political murders. (See commentary accompanying Alma 17:14, 50:21, and Helaman 6:17.) Here Mormon presents a highly condensed version of this information as a reminder of the Gadiantons’ sinister purposes and operations.