A VIOLENT gang fight which left two men with stab wounds was sparked by trouble between two families in Southampton.
Police revealed the information as they arrested two more men today in connection with the violent disorder which left two local men with stab wounds.
As reported, three men arrested following the violence in the Derby Road and Oxford Avenue area of St Mary's have all been released on bail pending further enquiries.
The latest arrests were of two Southampton men aged 22 and 23.
Two community meetings were held last night in a bid to prevent a recurrence and also to encourage witnesses to come forward.
The enquiry, called Operation Authority, is being led by a team of detectives from Bitterne CID who are urging anyone with information about the trouble on Friday night to come forward.
Detective Inspector Roger Middle said: "The information we have at this time supports the belief this is a result of friction between some members of two Southampton families. A number of positive lines of enquiry have been identified and are being rigorously pursued.
"However, I believe people within the immediate community have the information which could lead to the arrest and conviction of the offenders. Several members of the community have been quoted anonymously in the Daily Echo. I would ask these people to come forward and speak to us."
Both injured men, aged 28 and 29 and from Southampton, were taken to Southampton General Hospital. One man has been discharged, and one man remains in hospital in a serious, but stable, condition.Calls should be made to police on 0845 045 45 45, or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
