NPA SUCCESSFULLY OPPOSES BAIL OF TWO ACCUSED IN ANTI-GANG UNIT MURDER CASE
The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) has successfully opposed the bail applications of Cheslyn Collins (23) and Jamal Meyer (24) in the Boksburg Magistrates’ Court, Gauteng, in connection with the murders of two South African Police Service (SAPS) Anti-Gang Unit members and two civilians in Reiger Park.
The four victims, Roleen Lessing, Jayden Magerman, Constable Tomatsane and Constable Sibeko, were killed during an incident on 07 August 2026. Constable Tomatsane and Constable Sibeko were members of the SAPS Anti-Gang Unit.
The NPA notes the court's decision to grant bail of R5,000 each to Elvino Crawford (27) and Macforden Ford. In its ruling, the court found that Crawford did not actively participate in the commission of the offences. Regarding Ford, the State relied on a confession statement, while the court also found that neither Crawford nor Ford appeared in video footage relating to the incident.
All four accused face four counts of murder, one count of attempted murder, two counts of robbery with aggravating circumstances, and charges relating to the unlawful possession of a firearm and ammunition.
The NPA welcomes the court's decision to deny bail to Collins and Meyer. The ruling reflects the seriousness of the charges and reinforces the principle that the interests of justice must prevail in matters involving violent crime, attacks on law enforcement officials, and offences linked to organised criminal activity.
While the NPA respects the court's decision to grant bail to Crawford and Ford, it emphasises that the granting of bail does not amount to an acquittal or a finding of innocence. The accused remain before court on serious charges, and the State will continue to pursue its investigations and prosecution of the matter.
The NPA remains committed to ensuring accountability for violent crimes committed against members of law enforcement and the broader community, and will continue to prosecute such matters without fear, favour or prejudice. The matter has been postponed to 01 December 2026 for further investigations.
Issued by:
Magaboke Mohlatlole
NPA Communications Officer
Gauteng Division, Johannesburg