EFF
Johannesburg – The Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) has come out swinging against the Johannesburg High Court’s decision to grant R400,000 bail to businessman Katiso “KT” Molefe, calling it a reckless move that puts public safety at risk and exposes deep flaws in South Africa’s justice system.
In a strongly worded statement released on Friday, 10 October 2025, the EFF described the ruling as an “indictment of a judiciary that continues to show leniency to powerful criminal figures” while ordinary people and victims pay the price. Molefe, accused of masterminding the 2022 murders of popular musician Oupa “DJ Sumbody” Sefoka and his bodyguards Sibusiso Mokoena and Sandile Myeza, had his bail appeal approved after the Alexandra Magistrates’ Court denied it in August. The party warned that this leniency feeds into a broader bail crisis, where over 16,000 offenders abscond every year, leaving communities vulnerable to further crime.
The EFF’s outrage echoes widespread public concern over how high-profile suspects like Molefe – linked to organised crime syndicates – seem to navigate the system with ease. With Molefe now free under strict conditions, including surrendering his passport and restricting travel to Gauteng except for approved business in Welkom, many fear for witnesses’ safety and question if justice truly serves the people. As investigations continue into Molefe’s alleged empire of drugs, extortion, and assassinations, this case highlights the urgent need for reforms to prevent bail from becoming a “weapon of privilege” for the powerful.
EFF’s Full Statement and Key Criticisms
In their official release, the EFF expressed deep anger over the court’s choice to overturn the magistrate’s ruling, marking it as Molefe’s second successful bail appeal this year. [0] “The Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) notes, with outrage, the reckless decision by the Johannesburg High Court to grant R400,000 bail to crime kingpin Katiso ‘KT’ Molefe, overturning an earlier ruling by the Alexandra Magistrates’ Court which had rightly denied his release,” the statement began. [10]
The party pointed out Molefe’s charges: multiple counts of murder, conspiracy to commit murder, and possession of unlicensed firearms and ammunition. Firearms seized from him have been forensically linked to 18 other criminal cases, including attempted murders and assassinations. [10] They highlighted his arrest in July 2025 by the SAPS Political Killings Task Team, yet he continues to “manipulate the justice system to secure his freedom.” [10]
The EFF connected this to a warning from KwaZulu-Natal police commissioner Lt-Gen Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi about a “deep crisis within the judiciary” – one that is “captured, compromised, and increasingly protective of those with money and connections.” [20] They demanded immediate state protection for all witnesses and whistleblowers tied to Molefe’s cases, noting the grave risks they face while a man accused of leading one of South Africa’s most dangerous syndicates walks free. [20]
The statement also cautioned against an imminent bail appeal for Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala, Molefe’s associate, urging the courts not to repeat the mistake. “Granting bail to another alleged syndicate leader will amount to a complete surrender of the state’s authority and will place entire communities at risk,” the EFF warned. [20] They criticised the judiciary for continuing to release dangerous suspects, which endangers lives and undermines every principle of justice.
Molefe’s Bail Ruling and Conditions
On Friday, 10 October 2025, the Johannesburg High Court granted Molefe R400,000 bail, ruling that the Alexandra Magistrates’ Court had erred in denying it. [10] Judge Brad Wanless imposed strict conditions to address state concerns about flight risk and witness tampering: Molefe must surrender his passport, report twice weekly to a police station, avoid contact with witnesses or co-accused, and not leave Gauteng province without permission – except for business in Welkom, where he must notify the investigating officer ahead of time. [11]
The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) expressed strong disappointment, with spokesperson Phindi Mjonondwane saying the decision overlooked Molefe’s circle of influence and resources, which could help him evade justice. The NPA is considering an appeal, arguing that Molefe poses a serious threat given his alleged ties to organised crime.
This is Molefe’s second bail win this year; earlier, the Pretoria High Court granted him release in the murder case of businessman Armand Swart. Molefe, 61, faces five counts of murder related to the 2022 Woodmead shooting that killed DJ Sumbody and his bodyguards, plus other charges.
South Africa’s Bail Crisis: Over 16,000 Absconders Annually
The EFF’s statement draws attention to a disturbing trend: South Africa’s bail system is in crisis, with over 16,000 offenders absconding every year. According to Justice Minister Thembi Simelane, records show 16,012 bail absconders with active cases, many over five years old. This leniency, the EFF argues, allows dangerous suspects to commit further crimes, hitting the poor and working class hardest while victims suffer.
Statistics from the Department of Correctional Services and reports confirm high reoffending rates among those on bail or parole. In a country where organised crime thrives, such figures fuel fears that the justice system favours the connected over public safety.
Public and Political Reactions to the Bail Decision
Social media exploded with outrage following the ruling, with users questioning judicial independence and calling for reforms. One post lamented: “Money always wins — justice for sale in SA.” Others defended due process, noting “bail is not acquittal.”
The EFF’s X post with the statement garnered thousands of views, likes, and shares, amplifying calls for witness protection. Anti-crime activists echoed the party’s stance, warning that Molefe’s release could endanger lives and tamper with evidence.
Legal experts like Christiaan Small noted the bail conditions are strict, with authorities able to monitor Molefe closely. However, the NPA’s disappointment reflects broader worries about high-profile bail cases fueling crime.
Molefe’s Background and Ongoing Investigations
Molefe, labelled a key figure in Gauteng’s “Big Five” syndicates, is accused of running drugs, extortion, and hits. Seized firearms link him to 18 other cases, including attempted murders. His associate Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala faces similar scrutiny in hospital tender fraud.
The SAPS Political Killings Task Team arrested Molefe in July 2025, but his quick bail appeals have kept him free. As trials loom, the EFF vows to stand with victims and whistleblowers, pushing for a system that punishes rather than protects criminals.
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