Johannesburg DJ and property activist Warrick Stock, known as DJ Warras, was shot dead on Tuesday, December 16, outside Zambesi House in the Johannesburg CBD. Police say a suspect approached him as he exited the building, opened fire, then fled.
What Happened Outside Zambesi House
City officials have pointed to CCTV analysis and say the killing looks targeted. They link that assessment to Stock’s work around hijacked buildings and his role in trying to restore control to lawful owners. Officials also say Stock had obtained multiple protection orders linked to alleged threats made against him before the shooting.
The DJ Warras murder has triggered renewed fear among people who work on reclaiming buildings, and it has also raised hard questions about how exposed whistleblowers and investigators can be in the Johannesburg CBD.
What His Team Says They Found at the Building
Information shared by people close to Stock says he and his security team conducted an audit at Zambesi House earlier this year. They claim the team flagged serious health and safety risks. They also allege they uncovered evidence of illegal activity inside the building, including claims of a brothel and equipment believed to be used to manufacture drugs.
Why Hijacked Buildings are so Hard to Fix
Investigators who track organised crime describe hijacked buildings as a high profit system. They say syndicates pack residents into unsafe spaces and collect cash rent while cutting corners on maintenance. They also link these buildings to crimes such as illegal utility connections, human trafficking, prostitution and drug dealing, plus hideouts for violent offenders.
They warn that neglected wiring, blocked exits and overloaded structures turn many of these sites into disaster risks, especially if a fire breaks out.
Private Security Questions and What Comes Next
Commentators in the security space say some owners rely on private security to assess a hijacked building and help regain access. At the same time, they warn that bad actors can hide behind legitimate branding, including in VIP style protection work. They also flag firearm control, oversight and accountability as urgent pressure points.
For now, the murder remains under investigation. The bigger story is the same. Until authorities break the syndicate business model that feeds hijacked buildings, Johannesburg will keep paying the price.
