Gangs thrive on the power and control they enjoy within their communities. The gang related violence is directly linked to the Mandrax market. The opposing gangs commit acts of violence to secure the largest possible share of the drug market and to maintain dominance in their respective territories. During 1997 a total number of 178 gang related incidents, comprising 238 charges, were reported in the Eastern Cape. The geographical area resorting under the jurisdiction of this station is estimated to cover 42km 2 .
Firearms are the favoured weapons used to commit gang related crimes.
A total of 119 attempted murder charges were reported. A variety of gangster groupings are operating in the Area and 16 such groupings have thus far been identified. It is estimated that gang membership averages about 100 members per gangster grouping. Their hierarchies are loosely organised and gangsters have been known to change their allegiances from time to time. The top structure is also often unable to control its members' activities.