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The Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) have condemned the Johannesburg High Court’s decision to grant R400,000 bail to alleged crime kingpin Katiso “KT” Molefe, calling the ruling “reckless and dangerous.”
The judgment overturns an earlier decision by the Alexandra Magistrates’ Court, which had denied Molefe bail. The EFF says the outcome exposes a justice system that has become “captured, compromised, and protective of those with money and power.”
What Happened
Molefe faces multiple serious charges including murder, conspiracy to commit murder, and illegal possession of firearms and ammunition. He is accused of orchestrating the 2022 murders of music producer and nightclub owner DJ Sumbody and his two bodyguards, Sibusiso Mokoena and Sandile Myeza.
Police investigations link Molefe to at least 18 other criminal cases, ranging from assassinations and attempted murders to cross-border hijackings. He was arrested in July 2025 by the SAPS Political Killings Task Team, yet managed to secure bail while still under investigation for another murder case.
Authorities allege that Molefe and businessman Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala lead a cartel known as the “Big Five,” which is believed to be involved in drug trafficking, tender fraud, contract killings, and extortion.
Official Response
The EFF expressed strong disapproval, calling the decision “a betrayal of justice and a threat to public safety.”
“The judiciary continues to release dangerous and well-connected suspects while the poor and victims of violence pay the price,” the party said.
The statement added that releasing Molefe while he faces multiple murder charges “undermines every principle of justice” and puts witnesses, police officers, and whistleblowers in immediate danger.
The EFF urged the state to provide urgent witness protection for all individuals linked to Molefe’s cases, warning that intimidation, disappearances, and assassinations remain common in politically sensitive investigations.
The party also cautioned against the upcoming bail appeal of Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala, Molefe’s associate.
“Granting bail to another alleged cartel leader would surrender state authority and expose entire communities to violent crime,” the EFF warned.
Community Impact
The EFF argues that South Africa’s bail system is in crisis, with over 16,000 offenders absconding each year, many committing further crimes. The party believes this trend erodes faith in the justice system and endangers communities.
“We will continue to stand with victims and whistleblowers terrorised by organised crime,” the statement read. “The justice system must not become a weapon of privilege for those it should punish.”
The EFF vowed to intensify its campaign for judicial accountability, insisting that justice cannot serve two classes — one for the rich and another for ordinary citizens.
