DJ Warras murder case postponed as accused applies for legal aid

The High Court in Johannesburg has postponed pre-trial proceedings in the murder case of Warrick “DJ Warras” Stock after one of the accused told the court he intends to apply for legal aid. The postponement follows a pre-trial conference held on Thursday and the matter was set down for further proceedings on 24 July 2026.

Who is charged and where the killing happened

Stock was fatally shot on 16 December outside a building near the Carlton Centre in Johannesburg’s central business district. Two men, Armindo Joaquim Pacula and Victor Mthethwa Majola, face charges linked to the killing.

Arrests, charges and custody status

The first suspect, 44-year-old Victor Majola, was arrested on 22 December. He is charged with a schedule 6 offence of premeditated murder and conspiracy to commit murder. The Johannesburg Magistrates’ Court denied him bail on 26 January 2026. Both accused remain in custody.

Armindo Pacula, described in court as the alleged gunman, was arrested on 30 January at the Marathon informal settlement in Primrose, Germiston. He faces charges of premeditated murder, conspiracy to commit murder and contravening the Immigration Act. In February, Pacula abandoned his bail application because of fear for his life.

Legal representation and the judge’s advice

At the High Court pre-trial conference, Pacula said he would apply for Legal Aid South Africa after his previous legal representative indicated they would enter into a plea deal. The judge explained the options for representation to Pacula and cautioned against self-representation, saying:

“Mr Pacula, the court is going to explain to you your rights in respect of legal representation, this being your first appearance in the High Court. You have three options. … Your third and final option is that you represent yourself. The court does not recommend that you exercise this latter option.”

Next steps

The case has been postponed to 24 July 2026 for further pre-trial proceedings.