Manitoba's Opposition Tories say the government's anti-gang ads seem to be misdirected.

The recently launched television ads feature a tough-looking brute warning about the dangers of gang life and are supposed to convince troubled kids not to join.

The Tories say the ads have been running during daytime talk shows, morning newscasts and the hit drama Desperate Housewives. 

Tory justice critic Kelvin Goertzen said he doubts any gang members are watching those shows, and he suggests the $250,000 advertising budget could have been put to better use.

Justice Minister Andrew Swan said he isn't sure whether the Tory accusations are true.

He said the government has tried to run the ads primarily during shows that young people watch.