Armando Joaquin Pacula, the individual alleged to have been the trigger man in the homicide of Warrick Stock, made an appearance in court on Monday as the prosecution solidified its arguments and expressed serious doubts regarding his legal status and whereabouts.
The 25-year-old is facing charges that include conspiracy to commit murder, murder, and violations of the Immigration Act.
Pacula was taken into custody at the Marathon informal settlement in Primrose, Germiston, following inquiries into the deadly shooting of the well-known DJ.
The case had been postponed earlier to verify Pacula’s residential address and assess his legal status in South Africa.
During the proceedings on Monday, prosecutor Vincent Mochabela disclosed that the information supplied by the defense could not be substantiated and claimed Pacula is allegedly in the country without legal permission.
“The matter was remanded for address verification. The address the defense provided was checked, and nobody was found at that shack. He is also illegal in the country,” Mochabela articulated to the court.
In a significant change, Pacula has decided not to pursue a bail application. His attorney from Legal Aid SA informed the court that instead of seeking bail, he may consider entering a plea. “He is abandoning bail. There is a possibility of a plea,” stated the defense.
The court also learned distressing details regarding the alleged motive for DJ Warras’ murder. The prosecution claims that the killing was arranged for a sum of R25,000, with Pacula reportedly receiving R7,000 for executing the act.
Additionally, investigators informed the court that although Pacula initially appeared without dreadlocks, the police later discovered dreadlocks at the location of his arrest.
Authorities also allegedly found a bag that is thought to have concealed the firearm associated with the murder, although the weapon has not yet been located.
Pacula’s lawyer expressed concerns for his client’s safety while in custody, stating that Pacula feared for his life.
“He is afraid he will be killed,” the attorney said, seeking to remove Pacula from Sun City prison. In response, the state confirmed that alternative measures had been arranged, with Mochabela mentioning that Pacula would be held at Modderbee Prison in Benoni.
The case has been adjourned until 11 February, when co-accused Victor Majola, who is designated as accused number one, is also set to appear.
Prosecutors have confirmed that inquiries regarding DJ Warras’ murder are ongoing, with more developments expected as the situation evolves.
