AKA Murder Trial Explodes: Seven Accused Plead Not Guilty as Long-Awaited Proceedings Begin

The highly anticipated murder trial of rapper Kiernan ‘AKA’ Forbes and his friend, celebrity chef Tebello ‘Tibz’ Motsoane, has commenced in the Durban High Court. This pivotal moment comes more than three years after the tragic shooting incident that occurred on Florida Road in Durban on 10 February 2023. The case, which has deeply impacted South Africa, sees seven men facing a multitude of charges in connection with the double murders.

The seven accused, identified as Lindokuhle Thabani Mkhwanazi, Lindani Zenzele Ndimande, Siyanda Eddie Myeza, Mziwethemba Harvey Gwabeni, Lindokuhle Lindo Ndimande, Siyabonga Gezani Ndimande, and Malusi Dave Ndimande, all pleaded not guilty to the 11 charges leveled against them. These charges encompass conspiracy to commit murder, murder, unlawful possession of a firearm, unlawful possession of ammunition, five counts of attempted murder, and money laundering.

Forbes, widely known as AKA, and Motsoane were fatally shot outside the Wish Restaurant. CCTV footage captured critical moments surrounding the attack. Investigators have previously indicated that AKA was believed to be the primary target, with Tibz tragically caught in the crossfire. The extensive investigation into these high-profile murders stretched across South Africa and extended into eSwatini, underscoring the complexity of the case.

The first wave of arrests occurred in February 2024, with five suspects apprehended, an achievement announced by KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Commissioner Lieutenant-General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi. Subsequently, two additional accused, brothers Siyabonga and Malusi Ndimande, were arrested in eSwatini. Following a lengthy legal process, South African authorities successfully secured their extradition in November 2025, bringing them back to face trial alongside their co-accused. This extradition process contributed significantly to the delays in bringing the case to court.

The trial officially began on Monday, 5 October 2026, in the Durban High Court, with proceedings scheduled to run until 6 November 2026. A brief interruption is anticipated on 4 November for local government elections. The State is prepared to call approximately 45 witnesses to present evidence related to the alleged planning and execution of the murders. Further court proceedings are expected to extend into 2027. All seven accused currently remain in custody as the trial unfolds, upholding the principle that they are innocent until proven guilty by the court.

During the initial proceedings, certain legal applications were raised. Accused number three, Siyanda Eddie Myeza, faces an additional six charges in a separate matter, which the State has argued should run concurrently with the AKA murder trial due to similarities in evidence. Furthermore, accused number one, Lindokuhle Thabani Mkhwanazi, supported by the other accused, submitted an application for a separation of trials. This application is slated to be heard on Tuesday, 6 October 2026, adding another layer of legal complexity to the ongoing proceedings.

The trial holds immense emotional significance for the victims' families. AKA’s father, Tony Forbes, and Tibz’s father, Sylvester Motsoane, were both present at the Durban High Court on the opening day, having waited over three years for this stage of the process. Tony Forbes expressed his confidence in the thoroughness of the investigation, stating, "investigators had taken time to build a solid case." He also conveyed his anxiety about the proceedings, viewing it as a crucial step towards closure for the enduring trauma, anticipating a "marathon" rather than a swift resolution.

AKA’s mother, Lynn Forbes, also shared her sentiments, conveying gratitude to the prosecution and investigating teams. While acknowledging the importance of being present for the trial's commencement, she indicated that she would not attend all court sessions. Explaining her decision, she stated her reluctance to endure the "gory details" of her son's death, an understandable stance given the emotional toll and the distance from their home in Johannesburg. Her presence on the first day was to "acknowledge the process, show respect for the process and express my appreciation."

This trial represents a major milestone in a case that has captivated and deeply affected many across South Africa. As the State begins to present its evidence, the nation watches, hoping for answers and justice for the tragic deaths of Kiernan ‘AKA’ Forbes and Tebello ‘Tibz’ Motsoane, marking a critical phase in the journey towards legal resolution.