Calls for state of emergency grow after DJ Warras' killing as march planned in his honour

Media personality Jacinta Ngobese-Zuma has called on the government to declare a state of emergency following the killing of outspoken DJ and broadcaster Warrick “DJ Warras” Stock.

The 40-year-old was shot and killed on Tuesday, December 16, in Johannesburg’s CBD near the corner of Von Wielligh and Commissioner streets, opposite the Carlton Centre. DJ Warras was widely known for his patriotic views and his vocal stance against crime.

In a series of social media posts, Ngobese-Zuma urged citizens to mobilise and demand accountability from the government, linking DJ Warras’ death to broader concerns about crime and illegal immigration.

Ngobese-Zuma announced a march scheduled for Friday, December 18, calling on authorities to declare illegal immigration a national disaster and to ensure justice for DJ Warras and other whistleblowers.

Using the hashtag #JusticeForDJWarras, she wrote: “FRIDAY 19th DECEMBER - Let’s take it to the streets. We demand the government declare a state of emergency on illegal immigration and justice for Warras and all whistleblowers.”

Her call has gained traction online, with many South Africans voicing support ahead of the planned march, which is expected to take place in his honour.

City of Johannesburg Mayor Dada Morero also joined calls for justice and accountability, describing DJ Warras as more than a respected media personality.

“He was an activist, businessman, and a fearless citizen who cared deeply about the future of Johannesburg and its people,” Morero said.

“He never hesitated to hold me and the City of Johannesburg accountable, driven by a deep love for Joburg and a desire to see its inner city revitalised and safe for all.”

Morero extended condolences to DJ Warras’ family and urged that the law be allowed to take its course, while appealing for privacy and space for investigators to conduct a thorough probe.

Tributes have continued to pour in from colleagues and friends in the media and entertainment industry, many remembering DJ Warras for his passion for Johannesburg and his fearless honesty.

Johannesburg Speaker of the Council, Cllr Margaret Arnolds, said she learnt with “profound shock and deep sadness” of the killing.

“The brutal and senseless killing of DJ Warras is deeply disturbing,” Arnolds said, adding that his death highlights the ongoing crisis of gun violence and crime.

“DJ Warras was more than a media personality; he was a voice of a generation, a mentor to many young people, and a symbol of what is possible when talent is nurtured.”

Arnolds called on law enforcement to leave no stone unturned in the investigation and reaffirmed the city’s commitment to working with communities and all spheres of government to reclaim the streets and build safer neighbourhoods.

As preparations for Friday’s march continue, calls are growing for decisive action against crime and for justice in the killing of DJ Warras.

anita.nkonki@inl.co.za

Saturday Star