By Lehlohonolo Lehana.
The pre-trial hearing of suspected crime kingpin Katiso “KT” Molefe and three co-accused has been postponed following a brief appearance in the Johannesburg High Court.
Molefe arrived at court on Thursday, 5 February 2026, under heavy security, transported in a bulletproof vehicle and flanked by a convoy of bodyguards armed with high-calibre weapons.
He appeared alongside Michael Pule Tau, 55, Tiego Floyd Mabisela, 45, and Musa Kekana.
This marked his first appearance in the High Court since the case was officially transferred for trial.
They are facing 35 charges, including murder, conspiracy to commit murder, unlawful possession of firearms and ammunition, and other serious offences.
During proceedings, the court noted interactions among the accused. Molefe and co-accused three were seen covering their mouths and speaking to each other for several minutes. The presiding judge Thifhelimbilu Mudau intervened, cautioning Molefe to focus on the proceedings.
“Mr Molefe, I see theres’ a conference going on between you and your co-accused. Are you paying attention? I suggest you pay attention,” the judge said.
The court was told the matter was not ready to go ahead. State is scheduled to make full disclosures to the defence on Friday, 6 February, providing the legal teams with the evidence required to prepare their cases.
The matter will return to court on 12 March 2026 for the formal pre-trial hearing.
Molefe is out on R400,000 bail.
Molefe was named by KwaZulu-Natal police commissioner Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi as part of a drug cartel known as the Big Five, although he faces no drug-related charges. In addition to Armand Swart’s murder, he also faces charges for the 2022 murders of Oupa John Sefoka, known as DJ Sumbody, and Hector Buthelezi, known as DJ Vintos.
NPA Gauteng spokesperson Magaboke Mohlatlole said accused one, two and three remain in custody, while Molefe is out on bail until the next court appearance.
“The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) reiterates its unwavering commitment to a thorough prosecution and to ensuring that justice is served,” Mohlatlole said.