DJ Warras murder: Accused abandons bail & seeks prison transfer
DJ Warras murder: Accused abandons bail & seeks prison transfer as new developments emerged at the Johannesburg Magistrate’s Court on Monday, 9 February 2026. The second accused, Armando Pacula, formally abandoned his bail bid and requested to be moved to another correctional facility, claiming that his life is in danger while in custody.
The case has drawn significant public attention due to the high-profile killing of media personality and businessman Warrick “DJ Warras” Stock, whose death in December 2025 shocked South Africans and raised concerns about organised crime, security disputes, and witness intimidation.
DJ Warras Murder Case Returns to Court
Armando Pacula Court Case Developments
The Armando Pacula court case resumed for the second time before the Johannesburg Magistrate’s Court, where the 25-year-old Mozambican national appeared in connection with the murder of DJ Warras. Pacula is the second accused in the matter and faces serious charges, including conspiracy to commit murder, murder, and contravention of South Africa’s Immigration Act.
DJ Warras was fatally shot on 16 December 2025 while walking near the Carlton Centre in the Johannesburg CBD. The killing sparked widespread outrage, particularly within the entertainment and business communities, where DJ Warras was well known.
Initially, the matter had been postponed for address verification, a standard procedure ahead of a potential bail application. However, in a surprise move, the accused abandons bail bid, signalling a major shift in his legal strategy.
Accused Abandons Bail Bid Amid Safety Fears
Request for Prison Transfer
During court proceedings, Pacula, through his legal representative, requested a transfer from the Johannesburg Correctional Centre, commonly referred to as Sun City, to the Modderbee Correctional Centre in Benoni. According to his lawyer, Pacula fears for his life after allegedly receiving threats while in custody.
“He informed me that there are people who killed his friend, and he is afraid he might be killed,” the lawyer told the court.
This development has added another layer of complexity to the DJ Warras murder case, as concerns around inmate safety, intimidation, and possible retaliation come into focus. The court heard that Pacula would be temporarily held at Modderbee Correctional Services while the matter proceeds.
Charges Linked to DJ Warras Murder
Serious Allegations Against the Accused
The charges against Pacula are extensive. Prosecutors allege that he played a role in the planning and execution of the murder. The DJ Warras murder investigation has already led to the arrest of another accused, Victor Mthethwa Majola, who is believed to be the alleged mastermind behind the killing.
Majola, aged 44, faces charges of premeditated murder and conspiracy to commit murder. He was denied bail in January, with the court citing the seriousness of the charges and potential risks if released. Majola is expected to return to court on Wednesday, 11 February 2026, the same day Pacula’s matter resumes.
Possible Plea Deal Emerges
Defence Signals Potential Guilty Plea
One of the most notable revelations in the Armando Pacula court case is the defence’s indication that a possible plea deal may be on the table. Pacula’s lawyer informed the court that there is a possibility his client may plead guilty, depending on what is contained in the prosecution’s docket.
However, the lawyer emphasised that he would need full access to the docket before advising Pacula on how to proceed. A plea deal could significantly impact the direction of the case, potentially speeding up proceedings and shedding light on the broader circumstances surrounding the DJ Warras murder.
Legal experts note that plea agreements in serious criminal cases are carefully scrutinised and must align with the interests of justice.
Background to the Murder Investigation
Zambezi Flats Dispute Under Scrutiny
According to investigators, the murder may be linked to a dispute at Zambezi Flats, where DJ Warras’s security company had reportedly been appointed to install a biometric access control system. The installation followed allegations that certain individuals were unlawfully collecting rent from tenants at the building.
Sources close to the investigation suggest that tensions escalated after the security upgrade, potentially placing DJ Warras at the centre of a serious conflict. Before his death, DJ Warras had reportedly received death threats and had obtained a protection order against five individuals, including a woman.
These details have reinforced the prosecution’s argument that the killing was premeditated rather than random.
Public Reaction and Ongoing Concerns
Safety, Justice, and Accountability
The DJ Warras murder has continued to dominate headlines, with many South Africans closely following developments in court. The decision by the accused to abandon bail and request a prison transfer has raised questions about conditions within correctional facilities and the protection of high-risk detainees.
Civil society organisations have also renewed calls for swift justice, transparency, and accountability in cases involving organised criminal activity.
What Happens Next in the Case
Court Date Set for February 11
The matter has been postponed to Wednesday, 11 February 2026. On that date, both the Armando Pacula court case and the proceedings involving Victor Majola are expected to advance. The court will likely address the prison transfer request in more detail and consider further submissions from both the defence and the state.
Whether a possible plea deal materialises remains to be seen, but its mention has already shifted public and legal expectations around the outcome of the case.
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Court postpones DJ Warras case; Mozambican national and Victor Majola among the accused
Conclusion
The DJ Warras murder: Accused abandons bail & seeks prison transfer marks a critical moment in one of South Africa’s most closely watched criminal cases. As the accused abandons his bail bid, raises safety concerns, and hints at a possible plea, the legal process enters a decisive phase.
With the next court appearance imminent, all eyes remain on the Johannesburg Magistrate’s Court as the country awaits further clarity and justice for the late Warrick “DJ Warras” Stock.
Mainstream Media References
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The Citizen — DJ Warras murder: Mozambican national abandons bail, fears for his life
This article reports on Armando Pacula ditching his bail application and expressing fear for his life while in custody, including defence comments about a possible plea. DJ Warras murder: Mozambican national abandons bail, fears for his life — The Citizen
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