Katiso “KT” Molefe Challenges Bail Denial in High-Profile DJ Sumbody Murder Case

High Court to Decide Bail Appeal

Johannesburg’s High Court is set to hear the bail appeal of Katiso “KT” Molefe, the controversial businessman accused of orchestrating the brutal 2022 murders of music producer DJ Sumbody and his two bodyguards.

Molefe, 61, was previously denied bail by the Alexandra Magistrate’s Court on 20 August 2025. Magistrate Renier Boshoff ruled that Molefe had failed to demonstrate exceptional circumstances to justify release.

“Considering all relevant facts and circumstances before the court… the applicant failed to put forward exceptional circumstances justifying his release on bail,” Boshoff said.

The State opposes the appeal, and arguments will be heard before Judge Brad Wanless.

Alleged Crimes and Co-Accused

Molefe faces multiple charges, including murder, conspiracy to commit murder, and possession of unlicensed firearms and ammunition. He is accused alongside three alleged hitmen: Michael Pule Tau, Musa Kekana, and Tiego Floyd Mabusela.

The 2022 killing spree in Woodmead left DJ Sumbody (Oupa John Sefoka) and bodyguards Sibusiso Mokoena and Sandile Myeza dead. Molefe is also linked to a 2024 mistaken identity murder of Armand Swart, and investigations tie him to several other high-profile cases.

At the time of his arrest in July 2025, Molefe was already out on bail for a separate assassination case.

Cartel Connections Unveiled

During testimony before the Madlanga Judicial Commission of Inquiry, Lieutenant General Dumisani Khumalo identified Molefe and businessman Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala as ringleaders of the so-called “Big Five” cartel.

The commission is investigating alleged corruption, criminal infiltration, and political interference within South Africa’s justice system. Khumalo described how criminal syndicates exploit internal sabotage to penetrate state institutions.

“Each cartel is led by a central figure supported by a leadership core and smaller operational units, often involved in drug trafficking, cross-border vehicle hijackings, tender fraud, and extortion,” he explained.

Firearms Linked to Multiple Crimes

Police reports confirm that an AK-47 and two pistols seized during the investigation are linked to 18 cases, including:

• Attempted murder of taxi boss Joe Sibanyoni (Aug 2022)

• Murders of DJ Sumbody, Mokoena, and Myeza (Nov 2022)

• Murder of Don Tindleni (Mar 2023)

• Mistaken identity killing of Armand Swart (Apr 2024)

• Attempted murder of DJ Vetties

SAPS also note that the AK-47 allegedly used in the attempted murder of actress and businesswoman Tebogo Thobejane remains unrecovered, and authorities have not ruled out further connections to Molefe and Matlala.

“Previously, we were looking at 10 cases. That number has since increased to 18,” said SAPS national spokesperson Brigadier Athlenda Mathe.

Public Reaction and Broader Context

The Molefe case has captured national attention, given its links to high-profile murders, alleged criminal syndicates, and corruption within state institutions. Social media in South Africa has been ablaze with commentary, highlighting concerns about cartel influence and internal sabotage within law enforcement.

Legal analysts note that Molefe’s bail appeal will hinge not only on procedural arguments but also on the broader gravity of his alleged criminal network, making the High Court’s decision highly anticipated.

The case continues to unfold as the Johannesburg High Court prepares to weigh Molefe’s arguments against the State’s insistence that he remain in custody while investigations into the Big Five cartel and related violent crimes proceed.

{Source: IOL}

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