South African Police Arrest Four Suspects in Connection with DJ Sumbody’s Murder

South African police have arrested four suspects, including three alleged hitmen and a mastermind, in connection with the 2022 murder of DJ Sumbody, recovering a weapon linked to multiple killings.

South African authorities have arrested four suspects—including three alleged hitmen and the suspected mastermind—linked to the 2022 murder of popular amapiano artist DJ Sumbody, whose real name was Oupa John Sefoka.

The arrests were carried out across various locations in Gauteng on Monday afternoon by the South African Police Service’s Political Killings Task Team, working in conjunction with the Gauteng Organised Crime Unit. This development marks a significant turning point in the high-profile case that has gripped the nation since Sefoka was gunned down in a hail of bullets in November 2022.

According to SAPS national spokesperson Brigadier Athlenda Mathe, the suspects, aged between 45 and 60, include three men believed to be contract killers and one individual suspected of ordering the assassination. During the operation, a firearm believed to have been used in DJ Sumbody’s murder was recovered. Forensic ballistic tests have confirmed the weapon’s involvement not only in this killing but also in several other murders.

“This operation is the result of painstaking investigative work since the day of the incident,” said Brigadier Mathe. “We hope this breakthrough brings a measure of closure to DJ Sumbody’s family, friends, and fans.”

The suspects are expected to appear in court soon on charges including murder and conspiracy to commit murder.

The same group of men is also reportedly linked to other violent crimes, including the April 2024 murder of engineer Armand Swart in Vereeniging. In addition, two of the suspects are said to be connected to a failed assassination attempt on actress and socialite Tebogo Thobejane—an attack allegedly ordered by controversial tender entrepreneur Vusimusi “Cat” Matlala.

National Police Commissioner, General Fannie Masemola, commended the investigating officers for their persistence and dedication: “Well done to the teams that have been piecing together evidence since November 2022. Their commitment to justice has made this breakthrough possible.”

DJ Sumbody was a beloved figure in South Africa’s music and nightlife scene, best known for his chart-topping hits and entrepreneurial ventures. His untimely death shocked the entertainment industry and sparked widespread calls for justice.

Authorities say the investigation remains ongoing, and further arrests have not been ruled out.