Two men charged with the murder of media personality Warrick Stock, widely known as DJ Warras, appeared in the Johannesburg Magistrates’ Court on Wednesday, 24 December 2025, as police intensified investigations into what is believed to have been a targeted killing.
Stock, 40, was shot and killed on 16 December outside Zambesi House in Johannesburg’s central business district. At the time of his death, he was linked to the building through his private security firm, Imperium Ops International, which was contracted to provide services at the premises.
Arrests Follow Pre-Dawn Police Operation
The arrests followed a pre-dawn operation by the South African Police Service (SAPS) at the Morafe Hostel in Soweto on Monday, 22 December. During the raid, the two suspects were taken in for questioning before being formally charged with murder.
SAPS spokesperson Brigadier Brenda Muridili confirmed that the suspects now face a murder charge and that investigations are ongoing.
Police are still searching for at least one additional suspect. CCTV footage recovered from the scene allegedly shows three individuals approaching Stock shortly before he was shot.
Possible Link to Security Work
Investigators are examining whether the killing was linked to Stock’s work in the private security industry, particularly his involvement in operations at inner-city buildings, a sector often associated with disputes over access, control and compliance.
In the weeks leading up to his death, Stock had reportedly obtained several protection orders after receiving threats connected to his work. Police have not yet confirmed whether these threats are directly linked to the murder but say all possibilities remain under investigation.
Bail Likely to Be Opposed
The court appearance came a day after Stock was laid to rest at a funeral attended by family members, friends, and colleagues from the media and security industries.
The State is expected to oppose bail, citing the seriousness of the charge and concerns that the accused could interfere with witnesses or the ongoing investigation.
The matter has been postponed for further proceedings, while police continue to pursue additional suspects and analyse evidence, including CCTV footage and cellphone records.
