AKA and Tibz murder case postponed to February! The murder case of South African rapper Kiernan “AKA” Forbes and celebrity chef Tebello “Tibz” Motsoane has been postponed to February 2025 as the state continues to prepare its indictments.
The delay marks another step in the complex investigation surrounding the high-profile killings.
Accused Appear in Court
The five men accused of the double murder returned to the Durban Magistrates Court on Friday for a scheduled hearing. The state, represented by the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA), requested a postponement to allow additional time to finalize the necessary documentation for the trial.
AKA and Tibz murder case
KwaZulu-Natal NPA spokesperson Natasha Ramkisson-Kara explained the decision:
“Today, we heard from the state that investigations have reached an advanced stage. The matter was then remanded for the indictments to be drafted and served on the accused on their next appearance, which will be the 7th of February 2025.”
This update indicates significant progress in the case, although further procedural steps are needed before the trial can begin.
The Tragic Incident
Kiernan Forbes, famously known as AKA, and his close friend, chef and entrepreneur Tibz Motsoane, were tragically gunned down on February 10, 2023. The shooting occurred outside Wish on Florida, a popular restaurant on Durban’s Florida Road.
The brazen attack, captured on CCTV, shocked South Africa and sparked widespread calls for justice. Both men were prominent figures in their respective industries, and their deaths left a lasting impact on fans, friends, and family members.
Investigative Challenges
The investigation into the murders has been fraught with challenges. Authorities have faced scrutiny over the pace of progress, with the public and media demanding answers in the high-profile case.
Ramkisson-Kara’s statement that the investigation is in an “advanced stage” suggests that authorities are confident in their ability to build a strong case against the accused. However, no details about the nature of the evidence or the charges have been disclosed at this stage.
Public and Family Reactions
The postponement has elicited mixed reactions from the public and the families of the victims. While some see it as a sign that the prosecution is being thorough, others have expressed frustration over the delays in delivering justice.
The families of AKA and Tibz have remained largely private about the proceedings, focusing instead on preserving the legacies of their loved ones. In past statements, they have urged the public to allow the legal process to unfold without speculation or undue pressure on the authorities.
The Accused
Little information about the five accused has been made public. They have remained in custody since their arrest earlier this year. The charges against them are expected to include murder, and possibly additional counts related to the planning and execution of the killings.
Their legal representatives have yet to comment on the state’s progress or the upcoming trial, but their defense strategies will likely come into sharper focus as the case proceeds.
Looking Ahead
The February 2025 court date is a critical milestone, as it marks the point at which the accused are expected to be formally charged and provided with detailed indictments. This will set the stage for a trial that promises to attract significant public attention.
For many, the case is emblematic of broader issues in South Africa, including rising crime rates and the need for justice reform. AKA and Tibz’s deaths have become a rallying point for calls to address violence in the country, particularly against high-profile individuals.
Conclusion
As the murder case of AKA and Tibz inches closer to trial, the focus remains on ensuring that justice is served for the victims and their families. While delays in high-profile cases are not uncommon, they often test the patience of those seeking closure.
With the next court date set for February 7, 2025, the public will be watching closely as the legal process unfolds, hoping for answers and accountability in one of South Africa’s most talked-about cases.
