Police have named a former resident of the Zambesi building in Johannesburg’s CBD as a person of interest in the murder of well-known media figure Warrick “DJ Warras” Stock, as investigations into the fatal shooting gather pace.
Johannesburg MMC for Public Safety, Dr Mgcini Tshwaku, confirmed that the woman, who previously lived in the building where DJ Warras was shot on Tuesday, is believed to be central to long-running conflicts linked to hijacked inner-city properties. He added that she is also mentioned in a protection order that DJ Warras had secured against individuals associated with the building before his death.
So far, police have questioned five individuals in connection with the killing, while efforts continue to track down other suspects. Tshwaku said law enforcement agencies are working tirelessly, following several leads to determine the motive behind the attack.
Investigators are also reviewing CCTV footage that allegedly shows a dreadlocked man firing at DJ Warras as he left the building near the Carlton Centre shortly after midday before escaping on foot. Police noted that nothing was taken from the victim, and spent cartridges were found at the scene, indicating that the shooting was a deliberate and targeted act.
According to Tshwaku, DJ Warras had obtained more than one protection order against people who had allegedly threatened him in the weeks leading up to the incident, with one matter heard in court just days before the shooting. Those named in the orders are now being questioned as part of the investigation.
The case has renewed focus on the challenges posed by hijacked buildings and violent crime in Johannesburg’s inner city. Authorities have appealed to members of the public to come forward with any information that could assist the ongoing probe.
