DJ Sumbody’s Family Relieved as Alleged Murder Mastermind Denied Bail

The family of slain amapiano star DJ Sumbody is breathing a little easier this week. The Alexandra Magistrate’s Court has denied bail to 61-year-old Katiso Molefe, the man accused of orchestrating the hit that left the popular musician and his two bodyguards dead in 2022.

A court decision welcomed by many

On Wednesday, Magistrate Reneir Boshoff ruled that Molefe could not be released, citing his criminal history, the seriousness of the charges, and the risk of interfering with ongoing investigations. Molefe, described by the State as a danger to society, faces multiple murder charges, including those of DJ Sumbody, DJ Vintos, engineer Armand Swart, and businessman Don Tindleni.

The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) welcomed the decision, with spokesperson Phindi Mjonondwane saying, “The interest of justice does not permit his release. The accused is a danger to society and knows the lengthy prison sentence he faces if convicted.”

A family still searching for justice

For DJ Sumbody’s family, the bail denial is a small but significant step in a long road toward justice. Family spokesperson Chad Thomas said the ruling brought some comfort: “We believe a lot of people will sleep easier knowing that the mastermind of this murder-for-hire syndicate remains behind bars.”

The family hopes the State’s case, built on bank records, WhatsApp messages, and witness testimony, will finally expose what has become a disturbing trend in South Africa’s underworld: the rise of izinkabi contract killers for hire.

A wider concern: contract killings in South Africa

South Africa has seen a wave of high-profile murders in recent years, with musicians, businessmen, and even whistleblowers gunned down in orchestrated hits. The killings of DJ Sumbody and others highlight a chilling reality organised crime networks are thriving, and ordinary families are left to pick up the pieces.

Social media has been buzzing with mixed emotions. Fans of the late DJ have expressed both relief and frustration relief that Molefe remains behind bars, but frustration at how long justice is taking. On X (formerly Twitter), one fan wrote: “At least he’s not out, but why does it feel like these cases drag on forever?”

Molefe and his co-accused will return to court on September 18 for the indictment process. Until then, the families of the victims continue to wait hoping that this time, justice will not only be served but will also send a message that South Africa’s culture of contract killings cannot go unpunished.

{Source: IOL}

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