Most of the time when people think of Cape Town they envision one of the world’s top tourist destinations – sunny shores, a breathtaking mountain and bustling nightlife to name but a few of the draws. What is often omitted however, is the uglier side of the city – murderous, drug-fuelled gangs which run rampant in the city’s darker corners.

“Once you are a member, you are in it for life.”

Explained a member of the Americans, one of Cape Town’s most notorious gangs. The gang’s actions and tendency for violence have gotten so far out of control that both COSATU and Helen Zille have called on President Jacob Zuma to intervene, however the response they got was far from reassuring. His office said that he would take advice from local law enforcement on the ground. Although there have been talks of a “truce” between gangs, dozens of murders over the last few months and fighting “virtually every night” make it seem unlikely.

Alex Crawford, of Sky News, gained an exclusive audience with a small group of the Americans, who call Lavender Hill in the Cape Flats their home. The men speak openly about their habits, including their daily use of tik and how they are affected when they are unable to obtain their drug of choice.

Not explained in the clip above is the gang’s hierarchy which sees the elders being identified as the White House and fighters as the Pentagon. Before being accepted a member, candidates must “spill blood” as a sign of loyalty.

“It might be robbing or taking revenge … whatever we decide.”

Despite the obvious threat this gang, and others, pose to society it is unclear whether the government will take action and if they do, what that would entail.

[Source: Sky News, YouTube]