“WITNESSES SAW — BUT MANY SAID NOTHING” — How Silence and Confusion Cloud Key Moments in the DJ Warras Case
With multiple passersby and active CCTV nearby, many expected clearer evidence to surface quickly. Yet crucial sequences of that day remain fragmented — and fear has kept some witnesses from speaking up
Investigators are now intensifying efforts to encourage those with information to come forward, hoping to connect the dots that could finally clarify what really unfolded…👇👇
“Witnesses Saw — But Many Said Nothing” — How Silence and Confusion Cloud Key Moments in the DJ Warras Case
The brazen daylight murder of Warrick “DJ Warras” Stock on December 16, 2025, unfolded in one of Johannesburg’s busiest areas—outside Zambezi House in the CBD, opposite the Carlton Centre—yet crucial details remain shrouded in silence and confusion. Multiple passersby were present, and newly installed CCTV cameras captured the attack, leading many to expect swift clarity. Instead, fragmented accounts and fear have hindered the investigation, with some witnesses reluctant to speak up due to the sensitive nature of disputes over hijacked buildings.
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Eyewitness reports describe a chaotic scene: three suspects approached the 40-year-old father of three as he neared his vehicle after overseeing security upgrades. A short man with dreadlocks fired multiple shots execution-style, aided by an accomplice in what appeared to be a security uniform and a third fleeing figure. Nothing was stolen, and Warras—armed himself—collapsed fatally. Despite the public location, initial eyewitnesses expressed hesitation to speak on camera, citing fears tied to the volatile world of building hijackings that Warras was challenging through his company, Imperium Ops.
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CCTV footage has been pivotal, clearly showing the dreadlocked shooter and his accomplices. Police have reviewed it extensively, identifying a “known” suspect. Yet, public outrage has grown over the footage not being released, with critics arguing it could aid identification before suspects flee. Authorities maintain withholding it preserves the investigation, but this has fueled speculation and distrust in a city plagued by high crime rates.
Investigators believe the hit links to Warras’s efforts reclaiming Zambezi House—an eight-story structure housing around 250 people, many illegally. His team uncovered overcrowding, health hazards, and suspected criminal activities, disrupting a profitable illicit rental scheme. Warras had secured multiple protection orders against threatened individuals, with threats escalating in recent months. Johannesburg MMC for Public Safety, Dr. Mgcini Tshwaku, confirmed these were “genuine,” yet enforcement gaps may have contributed to the tragedy.
Fear of reprisal from syndicates controlling over 1,100 hijacked buildings in the CBD alone has silenced potential witnesses. This shadow economy, generating untaxed millions through intimidation, thrives on such silence. Passersby and building occupants, aware of the dangers, often choose anonymity over involvement. Confusion arose early, with initial reports of questioned suspects denied by police, clarifying no arrests in the murder case despite a December 18 raid on Zambezi House.
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On December 19, National Police Commissioner General Fannie Masemola announced a breakthrough: a key suspect identified, with arrest promised “before Monday” (December 22). As of December 22, 2025, no confirmation of an arrest has emerged, heightening anticipation and questions about delays.
The case has galvanized calls for action. An emotional memorial service on December 19 in Sandton saw family, friends, and colleagues honor Warras, with his children calling him their “hero.” Tributes highlighted his journey from Durban to radio staples like 5FM and Y FM, co-hosting the Shady PHodcast, and mentoring artists.
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Politicians, including Gauteng’s Kenny Kunene declaring a “war” on hijackers, vow systemic change. Warras’s associate Nicole Nelson praised his “blueprint” for lawful tenancy and security.
His family, devastated with three young sons now fatherless, seeks justice amid grief. Silence from witnesses—born of fear and confusion—has clouded key moments, but investigators are intensifying appeals for information, hoping to connect dots and clarify what unfolded.
DJ Warras’s death exposes the human cost of urban decay and organized crime. As the manhunt continues, breaking the silence could be the key to accountability—and preventing more tragedies in Johannesburg’s shadowed streets.
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