Bishop Lavis detectives are investigating two counts of murder, after two men, aged 32 and 40, were gunned down in Vlamboom Street in Bonteheuwel on Thursday night, 2 October.

Both sustained gunshot wounds to the head.

Ward Councillor of Bonteheuwel, Angus McKenzie, says the victims are two known gang members, and are linked to the ongoing rivalry between the Hard Livings and the Dixie Boys gangs.

He says the area where this shooting took place has been quiet over the past few weeks, but warns these murders threaten to once again reignite violence.

“In response, we have immediately deployed our permanently stationed Metro Police officers, Law Enforcement, and the South African Police Service to stabilise the situation. At this stage, we can confirm that the murders were gang-related and that a rival gang carried them out.”

McKenzie says police are gathering information regarding the shooters and already have knowledge of the gang involved.

“We now await further details that will assist in identifying those directly responsible.”

He has assured residents of Bonteheuwel that he will work with authorities to restore calm and ensure that acts of retaliation do not endanger innocent people.

Police have appealed to anyone with information to call Crime Stop on 08600 10111 or use the mobile Application MySAPS anonymously.

READ: A woman has been murdered in Bonteheuwel