AKA and Tibz Murder
By Nkosana Khumalo
The five men accused of murdering South African rapper Kiernan “AKA” Forbes and celebrity chef Tebello “Tibz” Motsoane will make their first appearance in the Durban High Court on 8 May 2025. The accused were served with an indictment at the Durban Magistrates’ Court, where they were formally charged with multiple counts, including conspiracy to commit murder and murder.
The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) in KwaZulu-Natal confirmed that the case had been remanded for trial preparation, marking a significant step in the long-awaited justice process following the high-profile assassinations that shocked the country.
A Tragic Night in Durban
On 10 February 2023, AKA and Tibz were gunned down outside a popular restaurant on Florida Road, Durban. The attack, which was caught on CCTV footage, showed an unknown assailant approaching AKA and shooting him at close range before fleeing the scene. Tibz, who was not the intended target, was caught in the crossfire and also lost his life.
The double murder sparked national outrage, with fans, industry peers, and government officials calling for swift justice. In the months that followed, police launched an extensive investigation that involved tracking down multiple suspects across various provinces.
Breakthrough in the Case
After months of investigation, the South African Police Service (SAPS) arrested five men linked to the murder. Their arrests followed an intelligence-driven operation involving multiple law enforcement agencies. The suspects were apprehended in various locations, with police seizing crucial evidence, including firearms, vehicles, and cellphones, which investigators believe were used in the orchestration of the crime.
During a press briefing earlier this year, Minister of Police Senzo Mchunu commended the work done by the SAPS and the Hawks in ensuring that the suspects were brought to book.
“The arrests show that our law enforcement agencies remain committed to ensuring that justice is served. These suspects were not acting alone, and we are confident that as the case unfolds, more details will emerge regarding the masterminds behind this crime,” said Mchunu.
Formal Charges and Indictment
KwaZulu-Natal NPA spokesperson Natasha Ramkisson-Kara confirmed that the accused were formally charged with premeditated murder, conspiracy to commit murder, and unlawful possession of firearms and ammunition.
“The five men arrested in connection with the murder of Kiernan Jarred Forbes (AKA) and Tebello Motsoane (Tibz), among other charges, returned to the Durban Magistrates’ Court today. The State served an indictment on the accused, and the case was remanded to 8 May 2025 for the accused to make their first appearance in the Durban High Court,” said Ramkisson-Kara.
The indictment also outlines the prosecution’s case against the accused, detailing their alleged roles in planning and executing the hit. According to reports, investigators believe the suspects were part of a well-coordinated criminal syndicate involved in targeted killings.
Possible Motives and Investigative Leads
While police have remained tight-lipped about the exact motive behind AKA’s murder, several theories have emerged. One of the leading theories suggests that the killing was a contract hit linked to past disputes in the music industry. Other sources have speculated that the motive may be connected to personal or business-related conflicts.
Investigators have reportedly gathered electronic communication records, financial transactions, and witness statements that could provide insight into who ordered the hit and why. Law enforcement agencies have also worked closely with forensic experts to analyze evidence retrieved from the crime scene.
Public Reaction and Calls for Justice
The murders of AKA and Tibz sent shockwaves through South Africa, leading to a nationwide outcry for justice. Fans and fellow musicians have continued to demand accountability, with many using social media to keep pressure on authorities.
Family members of the slain stars have also expressed their grief and determination to see justice served. Speaking at AKA’s memorial in 2023, his father, Tony Forbes, urged the authorities to ensure that those responsible faced the full might of the law.
“We will not rest until those who took our son’s life are behind bars. AKA was more than just an artist—he was a son, a father, and a national treasure. His killers must answer for what they did,” said Tony Forbes.
Tibz’s family echoed similar sentiments, describing him as a visionary in the culinary world whose life was tragically cut short.
What Happens Next?
With the case officially set to move to the Durban High Court, legal experts say the trial will likely be lengthy, given the complexity of the charges. The State is expected to present a comprehensive case, including witness testimonies, forensic evidence, and surveillance footage.
, accused are currently in custody and are expected to apply for bail before their trial. However, given the severity of the charges, legal analysts believe it is unlikely that bail will be granted.
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