Businessman and alleged underworld figure Katiso “KT” Molefe (61) has been released on R400,000 bail after the Johannesburg High Court overturned an earlier ruling by the Alexandra Magistrate’s Court that had denied him bail.
Molefe faces multiple murder charges, including allegations that he masterminded the November 2022 killings of popular musician DJ Sumbody — whose real name was Oupa John Sefoka — and his two bodyguards, Sibusiso Mokoena and Sandile Myeza.
He has also been linked to the March 2022 shooting of DJ Vintos (Hector Buthelezi) outside a Soweto nightclub, as well as the April 2024 murder of engineer Armand Swart in Vereeniging.
Molefe was arrested in July 2025 by the SAPS Political Killings Task Team and had remained in custody since. His earlier bail application was denied in August, prompting his legal team to appeal to the High Court.
Delivering judgment, Judge Brad Wanless ruled that there was insufficient evidence to justify Molefe’s continued detention, describing the State’s case as “speculative” and lacking factual substance.
“Despite the seriousness of the crimes, there is no objective evidence before this court showing that the applicant’s release would endanger justice,” said Wanless.
He further stated that the Magistrate’s Court had erred in refusing bail, noting that the affidavits submitted by the prosecution contained “a distinct lack of real facts.”
Under the bail terms, Molefe must report to Morningside Police Station every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday between 6 a.m. and 6 p.m. He is restricted to Gauteng Province, except for approved business trips to Welkom, and his passport will remain in police custody.
He is also prohibited from contacting state witnesses or interfering with investigations, and must attend all future court appearances.
The latest bail amount adds to a previous R100,000 bail granted by the Pretoria High Court in a separate case.
The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) in Gauteng said it respects the court’s ruling but emphasised the seriousness of the charges.
“The NPA respects the court’s decision to grant Molefe bail but maintains that the charges against him are serious and linked to organized crime,” said Phindi Mjonondwane, NPA Gauteng spokesperson.
“The State remains committed to ensuring justice is served through a fair trial,” she added.
