The man responsible for the fatal shooting of Johannesburg community activist and media personality Warrick “DJ Warras” Stock has been sentenced to 25 years behind bars after admitting he carried out the killing for money.
Armando Pacula, a 25-year-old Mozambican national, entered into a plea agreement with the State in the Johannesburg High Court, where he confessed that he had been paid R25,000 to murder Stock. Following his guilty plea, the court sentenced him to 25 years’ imprisonment.
Pacula was convicted on multiple charges, including murder, illegal immigration, and the unlawful possession of a firearm and ammunition used in the crime.
DJ Warras, whose real name was Warrick Stock, was shot and killed in the Johannesburg CBD in December 2025. The fatal attack took place shortly after he had participated in an oversight visit to a hijacked building in the city. His death sent shockwaves through Johannesburg, with many remembering him for his involvement in community initiatives and his outspoken stance on issues affecting residents.
During court proceedings, Pacula admitted that he was the gunman who carried out the assassination in exchange for financial payment. His confession formed part of a plea and sentencing agreement negotiated with prosecutors.
The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) confirmed that the plea agreement was reached only after consultations with the Stock family. Authorities said the agreement was intended to secure a conviction while ensuring accountability for those involved in the murder.
Although Pacula has now been sentenced, the investigation into the killing is not yet complete. A second accused, who faces a charge of premeditated murder in connection with the same case, is expected to return to court on 17 August 2026. Prosecutors are continuing with legal proceedings against the remaining suspect.
Reacting to the sentence, the NPA said the outcome demonstrates its determination to tackle violent crimes and contract killings. The prosecuting authority stressed that individuals involved in orchestrating or carrying out murder-for-hire schemes will continue to face the full force of the law.
The case has drawn significant public attention due to the nature of the crime and the circumstances surrounding DJ Warras’ death. The revelation that the killing was allegedly carried out for just R25,000 has sparked widespread outrage and renewed concerns about contract killings in South Africa.
For the Stock family, the sentence marks an important milestone in their search for justice, although legal proceedings are still ongoing against the remaining accused. Authorities hope the successful prosecution of Pacula will strengthen the case as investigations continue.
As the matter returns to court later this month, prosecutors are expected to pursue the outstanding charges against the second suspect while seeking to uncover the full circumstances surrounding the planning and execution of the murder.
The sentencing of Pacula closes one chapter in the high-profile case, but the pursuit of justice continues as investigators work to ensure that everyone allegedly involved is held accountable.
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