Two brothers extradited and charged in murder of South African rapper AKA

Two brothers extradited and charged in murder of South African rapper AKA

Two brothers, Siyabonga and Malusi Ndimande, were extradited from Eswatini to South Africa on Tuesday and formally charged with the murder of award-winning rapper Kiernan Forbes-known as AKA-as well as the killing of his friend, celebrity chef Tebello "Tibz" Motsoane. The pair appeared in court alongside five other co-accused already in custody, facing additional charges of attempted murder and illegal firearm possession.

High-profile case shakes South Africa

Forbes, a prominent figure in South Africa's hip-hop scene, was fatally shot outside a Durban restaurant in February 2023, alongside Motsoane. The attack, described by police as a "coordinated hit," sent shockwaves through the country, which already grapples with one of the world's highest murder rates. While investigators suspect Forbes was the primary target, the motive remains unclear.

Police spokesperson Brig Athlenda Mathe told local broadcaster eNCA that one of the Ndimande brothers was "maybe one of [those who] pulled the trigger and shot AKA." The brothers, who had fought extradition through a prolonged legal battle, arrived at Durban's international airport under heavy security, their hands and feet shackled.

Family reacts to developments

Forbes' father, Tony, expressed relief at the progress in the case but reiterated lingering questions about who ordered the murder and why. His mother, Lynn, shared an emotional Instagram post featuring a photo of her and her son, writing, "This South African air is suffocating today ... I cannot breathe."

"Supplies have stabilized, but conservation remains essential."

Lynn Forbes, via Instagram

AKA's legacy and upcoming legal proceedings

AKA, celebrated for his three solo albums and collaborations with artists like Nigeria's Burna Boy, was in Durban to perform during his birthday celebrations at the time of his death. The Ndimande brothers are scheduled to return to court on November 25 for a bail hearing, while the broader trial against all seven accused will resume in Durban's high court next year.

Case timeline

• February 2023: AKA and Motsoane killed in Durban.
• 2023-2025: Legal battle over extradition of the Ndimande brothers from Eswatini.
• November 12, 2025: Brothers extradited and charged.
• November 25, 2025: Bail hearing scheduled.