Johannesburg – MMC for Public Safety, Dr Mgcini Tshwaku, led an intelligence-driven law enforcement operation at the Zambezi Building in Johannesburg on Wednesday night, following the fatal shooting of popular DJ Warras outside the building earlier this week.
The raid formed part of an urgent intervention aimed at stabilising the property and identifying criminal elements believed to be operating from within the building. Authorities moved swiftly amid concerns that the shooting was linked to broader criminal activity associated with the premises.
Speaking during the operation, Tshwaku said the enforcement action was guided by specific intelligence. Occupants were separated to allow officials to verify identities, assess compliance with municipal by-laws and enable law enforcement officers, supported by K9 units, to conduct thorough searches.
The MMC raised concern about a small group of occupants allegedly refusing to pay rent and using the lack of basic services as justification to resist authority. Tshwaku said this conduct was contributing to instability and creating an environment conducive to criminal activity inside the building.
While the majority of residents cooperated with officials, Tshwaku noted that a handful of individuals were problematic and have now been flagged for further investigation. He emphasised that the operation was conducted with sensitivity, with children and families prioritised and officers instructed to avoid unnecessary force or disruption.
Tshwaku also revealed that intelligence reports pointed to the possible presence of illegal firearms within the building, prompting heightened caution during the raid. Some suspects reportedly fled the scene during the operation and will be traced as investigations continue.
He stressed that the raid should not be viewed as a once-off action, but rather as part of a broader, long-term intervention by the City of Johannesburg to enforce by-laws, restore order and prevent criminal activity in hijacked and non-compliant buildings.
“This is about reclaiming spaces, protecting law-abiding residents and ensuring that criminal elements do not feel safe anywhere in the city,” Tshwaku said.
Investigations into the killing of DJ Warras and related criminal activity are ongoing.
Gauteng News will continue to follow developments as authorities intensify operations across the city.
