A major breakthrough in a string of high-profile killings has revealed a chilling connection between the murders of celebrated entertainers DJ Sumbody and DJ Vintos, as well as engineer Armand Swart. Investigators have uncovered a “smoking gun” – ballistic evidence linking the same firearms to all three cases.
A Trail of Violence
The timeline of these shocking crimes began in March 2022, when DJ Vintos (Hector Bhuthelezi) was gunned down in a hail of bullets in Orlando East, Soweto. Known for his vibrant personality and influence in Soweto’s nightlife, his death sent shockwaves through the entertainment industry.
Eight months later, in November 2022, DJ Sumbody (Oupa Sefoka) was assassinated alongside his two bodyguards, Sibusiso Mokoena and Sandile Myetza, in another brazen attack that gripped the nation.
Then, in April 2024, engineer Armand Swart was killed in Vanderbijlpark in what authorities now believe was a case of mistaken identity. His murder, initially thought to be isolated, became the turning point in the investigation.
The Breakthrough
During a July 6, 2024 media briefing, General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi revealed that three suspects were arrested in connection with Swart’s murder, leading to the recovery of two murder weapons and a cell phone. When local investigators hit a dead end, the KZN Political Killings Task Team was called in to assist.
Ballistic tests conducted on the weapons yielded a bombshell revelation: the same firearms were used in the killings of DJ Vintos, DJ Sumbody, and Armand Swart.
The Syndicate Unmasked
On December 6, 2024, the task team raided a suspected syndicate, arresting Katiso Molefe for Swart’s murder. Shockingly, during the operation, a senior SAPS official allegedly dispatched officers to interfere, raising concerns about possible internal obstruction. However, the operation proceeded, and critical evidence was secured.
By December 30, 2024, ballistic reports confirmed the weapons were also linked to:
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The murder of Don Dingleni (killed in March 2023 on the N1)
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The killings of DJ Sumbody and his bodyguards
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The assassination of DJ Vintos
Court Developments
In a recent appearance at the Alexandra Magistrate’s Court, Brigadier Athenda Mate confirmed that four suspects, including Molefe and three alleged hitmen, are now formally charged in DJ Vintos’ murder. The same hitmen are also linked to Don Dingleni’s killing, though the mastermind remains at large.
“We are linking the AK-47 and three pistols to all these cases,” Mate stated. “The same gun that killed Armand Swart was used in DJ Vintos and DJ Sumbody’s murders.”
What’s Next?
With the investigation still unfolding, Katiso Molefe is set to return to court on August 6, 2025, as authorities pursue further leads. The case has exposed a possible hitman syndicate operating across Gauteng, with potential ties to corrupt law enforcement.
As the nation awaits justice, the families of the victims hope these developments will finally bring closure to one of South Africa’s most disturbing crime sprees.