Breakthrough in DJ Warras murder: Cellphone provides all evidence, Dreadlocked gunman identified

A significant breakthrough has been made in the investigation into the tragic murder of Warrick Stock, known as DJ Warras. Police have uncovered crucial evidence from a recovered cellphone, directly implicating the killer. Authorities have identified the gunman as a short man with dreadlocks, and National Police Commissioner General Fannie Masemola has assured that the arrest will occur within the next 24 to 48 hours.

This development comes four days after the shooting outside the Zambesi Building in JOHANNESBURG's central business district, where DJ Warras lost his life while enhancing security for the property. The cellphone, seized during a raid led by Community Safety MMC Dr Mgcini Tshwaku, contains messages linking the suspect to the crime, providing a clear trail for investigators. As South Africa enters the festive season, this promise of swift justice offers a glimmer of hope amidst the grief surrounding the loss of a beloved radio and television personality turned businessman.

On Tuesday, 16 December 2025, DJ Warras arrived at the Zambesi Building to oversee the installation of CCTV cameras and biometric access systems through his company, Imperium Security. He had been contracted to reclaim the property from illegal occupants and restore order. Sources indicate that shortly before the incident, DJ Warras received a phone call that seemed to agitate him. He stepped outside, and moments later, the dreadlocked assailant approached him and fired multiple shots. CCTV footage captured the assailant fleeing, and despite DJ Warras's attempt to draw his own firearm, he died at the scene. Police have confirmed that this dreadlocked individual is the primary suspect, a known figure in local criminal circles.

The Zambesi Building is emblematic of urban decay in JOHANNESBURG's inner city. Designed for 200 tenants, it had become severely overcrowded, with many occupants living there illegally, straining city resources. DJ Warras had made progress in transforming the space, installing modern security features to prevent unauthorized access, challenging syndicates profiting from hijackings. These syndicates collect illegal rents and foster environments for activities like drug production and theft. Firearms and knives were discovered during the raid, underscoring the dangers DJ Warras faced.

On Thursday evening, 18 December 2025, the raid led by Dr Mgcini Tshwaku targeted the Zambesi Building. Officers recovered the crucial cellphone from one of 37 individuals suspected of involvement in the building's hijacking. These individuals had formed a committee opposed to DJ Warras's security efforts, discouraging tenants from paying rent. Among them was Sofia Khumalo, against whom DJ Warras had obtained a protection order on 12 December 2025, after reporting threats. Forensic analysis of the cellphone revealed conversations discussing the murder, with messages that appeared to celebrate the act. Investigators believe these chats confirm the suspect's involvement and point to who made the luring phone call.

National Police Commissioner General Fannie Masemola addressed the case on Friday, 19 December 2025, emphasizing that the suspect is well-known to authorities and that cooperation with other agencies would ensure a thorough process. Masemola's assurance aligned with the cellphone evidence, which police hope will also reveal the caller's identity. DJ Warras had previously encountered threats, holding five protection orders against ringleaders involved in building hijackings. He spoke out on social media about the need to address JOHANNESBURG's urban challenges.

DJ Warras's life and career added layers to this story. Born Warrick Stock, he rose to fame in the media industry, hosting popular shows and venturing into business with Imperium Security. His outspoken nature earned him the nickname "The Shady Lurker." A memorial service drew family, friends, and industry colleagues to honor his memory. Attendees included figures like DJ Fresh, Gareth Cliff, JOHANNESBURG Mayor Dada Morero, and Pearl Thusi.

This murder echoes other high-profile cases in South Africa. National Police Commissioner General Fannie Masemola also updated on related investigations. The broader context of hijacked buildings in JOHANNESBURG dates back to the post-apartheid era, when waves of urban migration led to the takeover of abandoned structures. These buildings have deteriorated into unsafe spaces lacking basic services. DJ Warras's efforts to reclaim them put him at odds with powerful interests.

#SouthAfricaLatestNews, #BreakingNews, #DJWarras, #WarrickStock, #Johannesburg, #Crime, #FannieMasemola, #MgciniTshwaku, #SofiaKhumalo, #ZambesiBuilding

Thanks for watching our video. Please subscribe to our channel at    / @dailystrangestories