Six suspects arrested in connection with rapper AKA's assassination
News
By
Diana Anyango
| Feb 28, 2024
Six suspects are in police custody awaiting trial following the murder of South African rapper Kiernan Forbes, alias AKA, and his ally, celebrity chef turned entrepreneur Tebello 'Tibz' Motshoane.
Relaying the news during a press conference held on Tuesday, February 27, the KwaZulu-Natal provincial police commissioner, Lt Gen Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi explained that the individuals were paid to monitor the late rapper's every move before taking him out alongside his friend who was unfortunately caught in the crossfire.
"It was clear that AKA was monitored from the airport and Tibz was not the intended target in the murder on Florida Road in Durban. We know they were paid for this," Lt Gen Mkwananzi said.
AKA was gunned down by an unidentified individual just minutes after stepping out of a restaurant he was dining at in Durban where he was set to perform later that night.
According to the evidence gathered by the police, AKA was shot at close range on the side of the head by a gunman who approached him from behind ruling it as an assassination.
A second gunman then started firing to deter onlookers from responding to the attack, hitting Chef Tibz.
The rapper's unexpected death shook the whole world with fans and musical counterparts coming out in large numbers to eulogize the fallen hero.
"To us, Kiernan Jarryd Forbes was a son, brother, grandson, nephew, cousin and friend, most importantly, father to his beloved daughter, Kairo. To many, he was AKA, Supermega, Bhova, and the many other names of affection his legion of fans called him by.
"Our son was loved and gave love in return. In this time of grief, we appeal for your compassion, space and time to congregate as a family and decide on the upcoming days," read a statement by his family.
Police spokesperson Colonel Robert Netshiunda said his team is yet to establish the motive for the murders.
The Sim Dope crooner's death came two years after his fiancee, Anele 'Nellie' Tembe lost her life after a fall from the Pepperclub Hotel's balcony located in the Central business district of Cape Town.
According to paramedics dispatched to the scene, the 22-year-old fell from the 10th floor sustaining severe injuries.
The All Eyes On Me singer proposed to Anele back in February 2021 and judging from their online posts, they were excited to take their relationship to the next phase.