A crowd of about 400 people gathered where Sihle Menzi Biyela fell and died, and sang while the man’s relatives cried, according to a Sapa reporter at the scene.

Several armed police officers secured the scene in KwaMashu’s A-section while detectives examined it.

The man’s identity was not released by police, but a local IFP members confirmed that he was the party’s “block chairman”.

Three cartridge casings were seen lying next to his body while at least four gunshot wounds were clearly visible as forensic detectives examined his body.

Official police comment could not be obtained and it was not clear whether the killing was politically motivated.

The area, which is home to a number of hostels and shacks, has been marred by violence between the IFP and the National Freedom Party.