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Majola bail bid delayed as CCTV footage looms in DJ Warras case
A courtroom waiting game in central Joburg
The Johannesburg Magistrate’s Court has pressed pause on a decision that many have been anxiously following. The bail application of Victor Majola, accused of orchestrating the murder of popular media personality Warrick Stock, widely known as DJ Warras, has been postponed once again. This time, the delay hinges on CCTV footage that could place Majola near the scene of the crime.
For now, the court wants answers before it makes any ruling.
Why a butchery camera matters
At the heart of the delay is video footage from a butchery close to the Zambesi Building in Johannesburg’s CBD, where DJ Warras was shot and killed on 16 December. Magistrate Annalise Tlhapi ordered that the footage be produced and viewed in court before any bail decision is made.
The video had already been handed to police for forensic analysis and forms part of the state’s evidence. However, concerns were raised about delays and potential chain of custody issues linked to SAPS forensic offices in Pretoria. To avoid this, the magistrate instructed investigating officer Captain Abe Montwedi to urgently approach the butchery owner for a fresh copy.
That effort hit a snag. The court was told the footage had only been stored for ten days and was deleted after being handed to the police.
Defence says fairness is at stake
Majola’s legal representative, Dumisani Mabunda, argued that access to the footage is critical for the defence. He warned the court that failing to disclose it could prejudice his client and undermine the fairness of the bail proceedings.
The court has indicated it will first consider how the footage should be handled and whether it is admissible before deciding on bail. Until then, Majola remains in custody.
The bigger story behind the shooting
Majola, 44, faces charges of murder, premeditated murder, and conspiracy to commit murder. He was arrested last month following an investigation into the killing of DJ Warras, a well-known figure in Johannesburg’s entertainment and media circles.
According to testimony, tensions around the Zambesi Building stretch back years. Investigators allege that Majola, his girlfriend Hlengiwe, and others were illegally collecting rent from tenants and not paying it to the rightful owner. The dispute reportedly began after the original owner died in 2018 and the property passed to his son, with rental income dropping significantly.
DJ Warras and his business partner were later appointed to assist with managing the building, a move that allegedly angered those involved in the illegal rent collection. Police say this conflict forms part of the motive behind the killing.
What police say happens next
Captain Montwedi told the court that police are close to finalising the case and that further arrests are imminent. He stated that he knows who the shooter is and intends to arrest him once the outstanding forensic work is complete.
The investigating officer also testified that Majola was seen near the building shortly before the shooting and was later identified in an identity parade. He warned that Majola could pose a flight risk or interfere with witnesses if released on bail.
Majola has denied all charges in an affidavit, describing himself as a self-employed taxi driver and father of 12. He insists the police have arrested the wrong person.
Public reaction and why this case matters
The murder of DJ Warras sent shockwaves through Johannesburg’s creative and nightlife communities, with many taking to social media to demand justice and transparency. The focus on missing CCTV footage has only heightened public scrutiny, especially in a city where surveillance cameras often play a key role in solving violent crimes.
The case returns to court on Thursday, when submissions around the missing footage will be considered. Only then will the court decide whether it is ready to rule on bail.
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Source: IOL, The South African
Featured Image: Front Page
