Police found themselves in the midst of a shootout between rival gangs in Leonsdale in Elsies River this weekend.

Officers responded to a tip-off about a shooting in progress at a premises in Caledon Court, Clarke Estate. Upon arrival, some of the suspects opened fire on the police, forcing them to retaliate.

One of the suspects sustained a bullet wound in the left foot. However, it’s unclear whether he was shot by the rival group or police members.

Officers found 14 x 9mm round of ammunition in his possession. A 35-year-old man was arrested for the illegal possession of ammunition and attempted murder.  

[Picture: Supplied / SAPS]

Shortly thereafter, SAPS proceeded to a premises in Leeusig Court where they found a Z88 firearm with its serial number filed off, a magazine and three 9mm rounds of ammunition. Further investigations indicated that the firearm was reported as stolen at Manenberg SAPS.

While officers were busy with the search, they heard shots go off outside. Upon further investigation, they discovered that a metro police member shot and wounded in his left knee and a boy who was playing was also shot and wounded.  

Both were taken to nearby hospitals for medical treatment.