AKA and Tibz Murder Trial

Court Hears Evidence as Seven Accused Face Charges
DURBAN, South Africa — The murder trial involving South African rapper Kiernan “AKA” Forbes and businessman Tebello “Tibz” Motsoane resumed at the Durban High Court on October 12, 2026, with prosecutors continuing to build their case against the seven men accused in connection with the killings.
Forbes and Motsoane were shot dead outside a restaurant on Florida Road in Durban on February 10, 2023. Their deaths shocked South Africa's entertainment industry and attracted widespread public attention.
According to SABC News, the trial began the previous week, with all seven accused pleading not guilty to the charges against them.
Police Evidence Under Examination
Before the October 12 proceedings, the State had called three witnesses. Their testimony included evidence from a police officer who arrested accused number three, Siyanda Eddie Myeza, in connection with an unlicensed firearm and ammunition.
The firearm is alleged to be one of the weapons used in the killings of Forbes and Motsoane. However, the allegation must be established through evidence presented in court.
The prosecution is relying on witness testimony and other evidence to explain the circumstances surrounding the murders. The defence has the right to challenge that evidence and question witnesses.
State prosecutor Elvis Gweka also asked the court to allow two witnesses to testify through a video link. The request was made because the witnesses were overwhelmed by the prospect of giving evidence in open court.
The request highlighted the challenges that can arise when witnesses are required to testify in a high-profile criminal case. Any arrangements for remote testimony remain subject to the court's approval.
Who Are the Accused?
The seven men facing charges in connection with the case are Siyabonga Gezani Ndimande, Malusi Dave Ndimande, Lindokuhle Thabani Mkhwanazi, Lindani Zenzele Ndimande, Siyanda Eddie Myeza, Mziwethemba Harvey Gwabeni and Lindokuhle Lindo Ndimande.
The charges include murder, conspiracy to commit murder, attempted murder and firearm-related offences.
Myeza also faces separate charges relating to an alleged 2022 murder and other offences. The court previously granted an application to separate those additional charges from the main trial involving AKA and Tibz.
All seven accused have pleaded not guilty. They are presumed innocent unless and until the court determines their guilt.
What Happens Next?
The trial is scheduled to continue as prosecutors present further evidence and witnesses. The defence will have opportunities to challenge the State's case as proceedings move forward.
The court must assess the evidence before reaching a decision. The prosecution ultimately has to prove its case beyond a reasonable doubt.
For the families of the victims and the many fans following the case, the proceedings represent an important step towards establishing what happened and determining whether the accused are legally responsible.
As the trial continues, the court's handling of witness testimony and the examination of evidence will remain central to the proceedings.