In a shocking revelation during court proceedings, 25-year-old Mozambican national Armindo Joaquim Pacula confessed to being paid just R7,000 to assassinate popular radio personality Warrick Stock, known as DJ Warras. Pacula, the second suspect in the high-profile murder case, made the admission while appearing before the Johannesburg Magistrates Court on February 2, 2026.
Pacula was apprehended on January 30, 2026, in an informal settlement in Ekurhuleni through a targeted crime intelligence operation. He faces charges of premeditated murder, conspiracy to commit murder, and violating the Immigration Act, as authorities allege he entered and remained in South Africa illegally. During his court appearance, Pacula reportedly detailed his involvement in the fatal shooting of DJ Warras, which occurred on December 16, 2025, in the bustling Johannesburg CBD.
According to court documents and statements, Pacula attempted to flee to Mozambique following the crime but was intercepted before crossing the border. He has elected to be represented by Legal Aid and expressed intentions to apply for bail. However, the case has been postponed until February 9, 2026, to allow for verification of his residential address and further scrutiny of his immigration status.
This development comes amid an ongoing investigation into the motive behind the targeted killing. No information has been released regarding the individual or group who allegedly commissioned the hit. A first suspect in the case had their bail hearing delayed earlier in January 2026, adding to the complexity of the proceedings.
DJ Warras, a well-known figure in South African entertainment, was gunned down in what appears to be a planned execution. The incident has sparked widespread outrage and calls for swift justice in a country grappling with high rates of violent crime.
Authorities continue to probe the circumstances surrounding the murder, with potential links to organized crime or personal disputes yet to be confirmed. The case underscores ongoing challenges with cross-border criminal activities and immigration enforcement in the region.
Pacula remains in custody as the investigation unfolds. Further updates are expected following the next court date.