TDPel - Media

Police arrest four suspects in Gauteng linked to murder of DJ Sumbody in Johannesburg shooting

DJ Sumbody
DJ Sumbody

After nearly two years of heartbreak, speculation, and investigation, there’s finally been a major development in the tragic murder case of South African artist and entrepreneur Oupa “DJ Sumbody” Sefoka.

Four men suspected of involvement in his killing are now in police custody and set to appear in court.

Suspects Set to Appear in Alexandra Court

On Tuesday, 22 July, four suspects – all between the ages of 45 and 60 – will appear before the Alexandra Magistrate’s Court.

Their arrests took place just the day before, on Monday, 21 July, after a coordinated police operation.

The suspects are believed to include three hired hitmen and one alleged mastermind who reportedly ordered the killing of DJ Sumbody.

The Tragic Death of a Beloved Music Icon

DJ Sumbody, known for his contributions to the amapiano music scene and for co-owning the Ayepyep Lifestyle nightclubs in both Pretoria and Cape Town, was fatally shot in Woodmead, Johannesburg, on 20 November 2022.

The brutal nature of the murder sent shockwaves through the South African entertainment world.

His killing left fans, friends, and business associates grieving — and for a long time, without answers.

Fear Drove His Business Partner Abroad

Months after the murder, it emerged that DJ Sumbody’s close business partner, Kagiso Setsetse, had fled to the United Arab Emirates.

According to a May 2023 report by Sunday World, Setsetse feared for his life and chose to relocate for his safety.

Special Task Team Stepped In to Crack the Case

National police spokesperson Brigadier Athlenda Mathe confirmed that the investigation was led by Gauteng’s organized crime unit.

Given the high-profile nature of the case, the SAPS Political Killings Task Team was brought in to assist with the probe.

Their efforts culminated in Monday’s breakthrough, when the suspects were arrested in Gauteng during an afternoon operation.

A firearm believed to have been used in DJ Sumbody’s murder was also recovered — and startlingly, it’s been linked to several other killings.

Charges Include Murder and Conspiracy

The four men are now facing multiple serious charges, including murder and conspiracy to commit murder.

Police haven’t ruled out more revelations as investigations continue.

The recovered weapon is believed to have been part of an ongoing investigation, as hinted at earlier this month during a press conference held by KwaZulu-Natal police commissioner Lieutenant-General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi.

Police Commissioner Praises Investigators’ Determination

National police commissioner General Fannie Masemola hailed the progress as a major success for law enforcement.

He credited the relentless dedication of investigators who had been working on the case since 2022.

“Well done to the teams that have been piecing together evidence since November 2022.

This is a culmination of hard work and dedication to justice,” said Masemola.

He also stressed that this was not a case to rush, adding that building a solid case takes time — especially in a murder as complex and deeply rooted as this one.

Could Recent Media Pressure Have Played a Role?

Some are now asking whether the renewed police action might have been prompted by the bold media briefing delivered by Lt-Gen Mkhwanazi on 6 July.

His press conference didn’t hold back, and it may have lit a fire under authorities to finally act.

What do you think? Did the commissioner’s tough words help spark action?