Alleged Crime Kingpin Katiso ‘KT’ Molefe Granted R400,000 Bail in DJ Sumbody Murder Case
Johannesburg – Controversial businessman Katiso “KT” Molefe has been released on R400,000 bail by the Johannesburg High Court after a successful appeal, overturning the Alexandra Magistrates Court’s earlier denial. The 61-year-old, accused of masterminding the 2022 assassination of popular music producer Oupa “DJ Sumbody” Sefoka and his bodyguards, must stick to strict conditions while awaiting trial.
Judge Brad Wanless ruled that the lower court had erred in its assessment, allowing Molefe freedom under tight restrictions like not leaving Gauteng province except for business trips to Welkom after notifying the investigating officer. This decision has sparked mixed reactions, with some hailing it as fair justice and others fearing it could let a dangerous figure slip back into criminal networks. As South Africa’s fight against organised crime heats up, Molefe’s case spotlights the challenges in balancing rights with public safety.
Molefe’s release comes amid probes into his alleged ties to Gauteng’s underworld, including drug cartels and extortion rackets. With previous bail in another murder case and whispers of being a “Big Five” gang leader, many wonder if this move risks more violence. The state opposed bail strongly, citing his history, but the high court saw enough safeguards in the conditions to let him go.
Background to the Charges Against Molefe
Katiso Molefe faces a slew of serious accusations stemming from the deadly 2022 shooting in Woodmead, Johannesburg. He is charged with five counts of murder, including the killings of DJ Sumbody (Oupa Sefoka), his bodyguard DJ Vintos (Hector Buthelezi), and others in related incidents. Prosecutors say Molefe orchestrated the hit, which also targeted Sibusiso Mokoena and Sandile Myeza, as part of a broader crime spree.
The plot ties into Gauteng’s shadowy world of organised crime, where Molefe is labelled a key player in the “Big Five” syndicates. These groups allegedly run drugs, extortion, and hits on rivals, preying on businesses, taxis, and construction sites. Molefe’s arrest in July 2025 by the SAPS Political Killings Task Team added layers, with links to firearms found in his possession connected to 18 other cases, including the N1 highway murder of Don Tindleni and assaults on figures like Tebogo Thobejane.
His past includes bail in the 2024 Armand Swart murder, where he was out on release before this latest saga. At 61, Molefe portrays himself as a legitimate businessman, but authorities paint him as a violent threat with deep cartel roots.
The Bail Appeal Process and High Court Ruling
Molefe’s road to freedom started after the Alexandra Magistrates Court denied him bail on 20 August 2025, calling him a flight risk and danger to witnesses. Magistrate Renier Boshoff cited his violent history and weak evidence for release. Undeterred, Molefe appealed to the Johannesburg High Court, arguing the decision ignored his rights and relied on guesswork.
In the appeal, his lawyers pushed that strict conditions could keep risks low, while the state fought back, highlighting his alleged gang ties. Judge Wanless sided with Molefe, saying the magistrate’s view was flawed and that bail with safeguards balanced justice. The ruling came on 10 October 2025, setting bail at R400,000 – a sum Molefe could afford given his reported wealth.
This is the second time a high court has granted him bail on appeal, following a similar win in the Swart case by the Pretoria High Court’s deputy judge president.
Strict Bail Conditions to Mitigate Risks
To ensure Molefe does not flee or tamper with the case, the court laid down tough rules. He must hand over all travel documents, report twice a week to a police station, and avoid any contact with witnesses or co-accused. He cannot leave Gauteng province without permission, except for business in Welkom, Free State, where he must notify the investigating officer first.
These steps aim to keep tabs on him while he awaits trial. Prosecutors had worried about his influence, but the judge felt these curbs would hold. Molefe must also steer clear of areas linked to his alleged crimes, adding another layer of control.
Public and Official Reactions to the Decision
The bail grant has split opinions. Anti-crime activists and community leaders slammed it as a blow to safety, fearing more hits like the 25 deaths tied to similar gangs since a suspect’s earlier release. One activist said: “People live in fear while these bosses walk free with money as their weapon.”
On the flip side, legal experts note bail is not a free pass – it is a right if risks can be managed. The National Prosecuting Authority has not said if they will appeal, but insiders hint they might. Police like General Mkhwanazi, who called Molefe a cartel head, continue their probes, vowing no let-up.
Social media erupted, with many questioning the system’s fairness. Supporters of Molefe argue the state has no solid proof yet, calling for his innocence until proven guilty.
Molefe’s Broader Allegations and Criminal History
Beyond the DJ Sumbody case, Molefe is eyed in other probes. He was out on bail for plotting Swart’s murder when arrested for this one. Links to the “Big Five” include claims of running drugs and extortion, targeting small businesses and routes across Johannesburg.
Firearms from his case tie to unsolved killings, showing a web of violence. At the Madlanga Inquiry, SAPS officials named him alongside figures like Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala as cartel bosses thriving on tenders and trafficking. These ties paint Molefe as more than a businessman – a alleged kingpin whose empire spans crime and commerce.
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