By Johnathan Paoli
The two men accused of the murder of media personality Warrick “DJ Warras” Stock remain behind bars as investigations into the killing continue, with the state indicating that key evidence is still outstanding.
Alleged gunman and Mozambican national Armindo Joaquim Pacula and taxi boss Victor Majola, accused of orchestrating the hit, appeared in the Johannesburg Magistrate’s Court on Wednesday, facing charges linked to the December killing of Warrick Stock, widely known as DJ Warras.
State prosecutor Vincent Mochabela told the court that investigations are not yet complete, but progress is being made.
“In a month’s time, it’ll be ready. Financial information in respect of the accused is still outstanding, including the information in respect of call data and downloading of cell phone and also the drafting of the indictment,” Mochabela said.
Stock was shot dead in the Johannesburg CBD in what investigators believe was a targeted killing.
According to reports, the media personality had been involved with a security company and was overseeing eviction operations at the time of the incident.
It is alleged that an unknown gunman approached him and fired multiple shots at close range.
Pacula faces charges of premeditated murder, contravention of the Immigration Act, and conspiracy to commit murder.
Majola, who was arrested six days after the killing, has been charged with premeditated murder and conspiracy to commit murder. He was previously denied bail.
During proceedings on Wednesday, Mochabela told the court that investigations are not yet complete, but progress is being made.
The court heard that authorities are still gathering critical evidence, including financial records and cellphone data, which are expected to play a central role in linking the accused to the alleged planning and execution of the crime.
Earlier reports indicated that CCTV footage placed both accused in the CBD prior to the shooting.
The footage is believed to form part of the State’s case, alongside other evidence pointing to a coordinated hit.
The killing occurred outside Zambesi House, a building in the CBD that Stock had reportedly been contracted to audit and secure.
The brazen nature of the attack, carried out in a busy urban area, sent shockwaves through the entertainment and media industry.
At a memorial service held in December, Stock was remembered not only as a prominent media figure but also as a loyal friend and compassionate individual.
His close friend and podcast co-host, Phind’Gcobe Madubela, known as DJ PH, delivered an emotional tribute.
“We are here not because we want to be, but because love demands that we show up. And if there’s one person who understood that deeply, it was Warrick. He showed up fully, loudly, with heart, with humour, and with intention, even when he was empty,” Madubela said.
Madubela described Stock as someone who remained steadfast and authentic, regardless of circumstances.
As the case continues, the court is expected to revisit the matter once the outstanding investigations have been finalised.
For now, both accused remain in custody as the State works to consolidate its case.
The murder of DJ Warras has drawn widespread public attention, with growing calls for justice as more details emerge about the alleged hit.
Authorities have indicated that further arrests are not being ruled out as investigations continue.
INSIDE POLITICS