A Hanover Park gang leader was mowed down in a shootout between police and gangsters after two gangsters were shot in what police fear could be the beginning of a new cycle of violence in the area.
A man believed to be a senior member of the Laughing Boys was shot dead by police, and two members of the Americans were wounded. Police were called after the rival gangs started shooting at each other at a soccer match on Saturday.
Warrant Officer Ettienne Conradie said the match turned sour at about 4.30pm. Someone from the Americans gang shot at the Laughing Boys and they returned fire.
Two of the Americans gang members were wounded, one in the neck and the other in the right side of his chest.
"When the police arrived they tried to contain the violence but a 67-year-old member of the Laughing Boys, who is believed to be one of their main leaders, started firing at the police. They returned fire and he was killed."
The two Americans who were shot were rushed to Groote Schuur Hospital.
"We're very concerned that this incident could start up the gang violence in the area. It has been quiet for a while now. This is very serious. We're calling on people to give the police any information to prevent gang wars escalating again."
Hanover Park is a poor community with a history of drugs- and gang-related violence. In 2006 gang warfare peaked, resulting in the area been referred to as the United States by its residents because of its large following of American gang members.
In 2006, Hanover Park residents signed a pledge against crime and violence in the area. It formed part of the Proudly Manenberg campaign.
Now community members fear yesterday's incident could lead to renewed warfare if there is retaliation for the shootings.
Conradie said police were keeping a watch. They were investigating two counts of attempted murder and an inquest docket had been opened.