Court Orders Five Accused in AKA and Tibz Murder Case to Return for Bail Hearing
In a major development in the high-profile murder case of rapper Kiernan ‘AKA’ Forbes and his former manager Tebello ‘Tibz’ Motsoane, the five accused have been ordered by the Durban Magistrate’s Court to return on March 6 for their bail application.
The charges levelled against them include two counts of murder, five counts of attempted murder, unlawful possession of a firearm and ammunition, and conspiracy to commit murder.
Thursday’s court proceedings marked the five suspects’ initial appearance before the magistrate in Durban. The accused, namely Lindokuhle Thabani Mkhwanazi, Lindani Ndimande, Siyanda Myeza, Mziwethemba Myeza, and Lindokuhle Ndimande, were seen obscuring their identities with masks and hoodies as they were ushered into the dock.
In a statement that casts further gravity on the case, the State, represented by Senior State advocate Lawrence Gcaba, indicated it would oppose the bail for the accused. The court session was witnessed by a somber gathering, including AKA’s father Tony Forbes, KwaZulu-Natal Police Commissioner Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi, and Police Minister Bheki Cele.
The February 2023 assassination that claimed the lives of one of South Africa’s most beloved rap icons and his close associate outside a Durban eatery has stunned the nation and spurred a comprehensive police investigation.
Earlier this week, police officials announced a total of seven arrests in connection to what has been deemed a premeditated assassination plot targeting Forbes. Details emerged revealing concerted efforts by the authorities to bring all involved to justice, as Gcaba, during the proceedings, disclosed that two additional suspects were captured in Eswatini. Extradition procedures are actively being pursued to have them stand trial in South Africa.