Political parties and government leaders have condemned the brutal killing of media personality DJ Warras, describing his death as a chilling reflection of South Africa’s spiralling violent crime.
This follows the killing of Warrick Robert Stock, popularly known as DJ Warras, who was gunned down in a brazen daylight attack in Johannesburg’s CBD on December 16. The shooting occurred shortly after noon outside Zambesi House, opposite the Carlton Centre, as he was leaving the building. Police have confirmed that the murder was not a drive-by attack.
According to Gauteng acting provincial commissioner Major General Fred Kekana, video footage shows a short man with dreadlocks approaching DJ Warras before opening fire at close range and fleeing the scene, leaving spent cartridges behind. The footage also captures a second suspect, dressed in a security uniform, seated near DJ Warras’ vehicle at the time of the shooting. Police are actively tracing both suspects as well as the murder weapon.
ActionSA president Herman Mashaba condemned the killing, citing reports that DJ Warras was actively involved in efforts to combat criminality linked to hijacked buildings in Johannesburg’s inner city at the time of his death. Mashaba said the murder signalled a direct attack on law-abiding citizens who stand up against crime.
“If the thugs behind his assassination believe they have stopped the fight to reclaim Johannesburg’s inner city, they are gravely mistaken. All they have done is make it clear to patriotic, law-abiding citizens that we must step up and fight back.”
Mashaba added that Johannesburg urgently needs decisive leadership to reclaim the city from criminal elements operating with impunity. He extended ActionSA’s condolences to DJ Warras’ family and friends.
Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture Gayton McKenzie, together with Deputy Minister Peace Mabe, also extended their condolences. In a statement, McKenzie said the department salutes DJ Warras for his significant contribution to South African media and the arts.
“He was widely regarded as a mentor and supporter of emerging creatives, always willing to open doors and encourage new voices,” McKenzie said, adding that his influence would continue to live on through the many lives he touched.
The Democratic Alliance (DA) in Gauteng also weighed in, with Shadow MEC for Community Safety Crezane Bosch demanding a swift and thorough investigation. Bosch described DJ Warras’ killing as a devastating loss to both his loved ones and society at large.
“His murder lays bare how unsafe our country has become and how shockingly easy it is to take a human life in broad daylight without fear of accountability,” Bosch said. She added that the DA would closely monitor the case to ensure justice is served.
“No family should have to bury a loved one because crime has been allowed to spiral out of control,” Bosch said.
The Star
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