Cachalia: Second Reiger Park arrest brings killers closer to justice

Acting Police Minister Prof Firoz Cachalia has welcomed the arrest of a second suspect in the Reiger Park killings, marking progress towards holding those responsible accountable. The 24-year-old was apprehended by a multidisciplinary team from the Hawks, Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Police Department, SAPS Anti-Gang Unit, and the Flying Squad.

Cachalia emphasized the commitment and determination of law enforcement to ensure those behind the crime face justice. He also praised community involvement in the investigation, urging residents to continue cooperating with police to bring the remaining suspects to justice. The arrest comes after the 23-year-old Reagan Cheslin Collis, alleged gunman, was previously detained.

However, a source familiar with the incident, who reviewed CCTV footage, suggested Collis may not have been the shooter. Collis allegedly confronted the gunman after the attack, stating: "I saw you." Collis and his friends reportedly had a long-standing rivalry with a gang called the Sour Boys, who had threatened the group hours before the shootings.

The attack targeted Anti-Gang Unit officers Constables Thapelo Tlomatsana, 29, and Sphiwe Sibeko, 28, and civilians Roleen Lessing and Jaydin Margerman. Collis faces four counts of murder, one count of attempted murder, two counts of robbery, and charges related to the possession of unlicensed firearms. His bail application is set for August 25.

Brigadier Athlenda Mathe, National Police spokesperson, confirmed the latest arrest and highlighted the Reiger Park community's crucial role in the investigation. Police Lieutenant-General Puleng Dimpane praised the community's assistance and reminded residents to continue providing information to law enforcement, emphasizing the importance of community involvement in combating gang violence.