By Palesa Matlala
- Victor Majola appeared in Magistrate Court accused of murdering DJ Warrick Stock and sent condolences to the Stock family there.
- The Defence said Majola was assaulted during his arrest and questioned evidence linking him to the killing.
The man accused of killing DJ Warrick Stock sent an apology to the DJ’s family during his first court appearance.
Victor Majola, 44, appeared briefly at the Johannesburg Magistrate Court on a charge of premeditated murder.
Through his lawyer, Majola sent his condolences to the Stock family and said he hopes justice will be served.
Warrick Stock’s sister, Nicole Stock, attended court. She appeared to be alone.
Majola’s family members filled most of the public gallery.
During the hearing, the presiding magistrate asked Majola about his health while in custody. Majola told the court he saw a doctor on Monday.
His lawyer, advocate Dumisani Mabunda, said Majola was badly assaulted during his arrest.
Mabunda said his client only received medical treatment on Tuesday while being held at a detention centre.
The defence also questioned the strength of the State’s case. Mabunda told the court there is no clear evidence linking Majola to the murder.
He said the defence has not seen any closed circuit television footage. He added that another female suspect made a statement that led to Majola being charged.
Mabunda said the State struggled when the matter first appeared on the court roll. He told the court prosecutors took almost five hours to decide whether to proceed.
He suggested police were under pressure to make an arrest.
Stock was shot and killed in December outside the Zambesi House building in Johannesburg’s central business district.
He was working as a security contractor at the time of the shooting.
The court postponed the matter to 13 January for a formal bail hearing.
Pictured above: The accused.
Image source: Palesa Matlala
