In a significant development, South African authorities have arrested six people in connection with the murder of the renowned rap artist Kiernan Forbes, popularly known as AKA a year after his death.
Six Arrested in Connection with AKA’s Murder
Last year, on February 10, the 35-year-old musician was tragically gunned down while walking with a friend outside a well-known Durban restaurant, just hours before his scheduled performance at a nearby club.
Police Minister Bheki Cele announced the arrests in a press conference in Durban, stating, “Six people have been arrested and will appear in court on Thursday.”
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The six Suspects and their charges
The suspects, ranging in age, with the oldest being 36, are believed to include the mastermind, two gunmen, two spotters, and the organizer of firearms and vehicles. Provincial police commissioner Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi revealed that several of those arrested were linked to separate murder cases. Two had been apprehended in Eswatini.
Motive and Investigation
While the police have a suspicion regarding the motive, they have not disclosed details. It was revealed that the rapper had been under surveillance from his arrival at Durban airport to the unfortunate incident at the restaurant.
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South Africa’s Disturbing Murder Statistics
South Africa is grappling with one of the world’s highest murder rates. It has seen several entertainment stars become victims of violent crime. Notably, in 2007, reggae singer Lucky Dube fell victim to a shooting during a failed car theft.
The recent police statistics for the country indicate an alarming daily average of almost 84 murders between October and December.
Watch the video of the Press briefing from the police below:
5 people have been arrested so far in connection with the murder of the Kiernan AKA Forbes and his friend Tibz…1 is on the run…Six suspects in total, congratulations SAPS Bheki Cele 💪#JusticeForAKA Iswatini R800k pic.twitter.com/9GrdCiXqVW
— Peché Africa 🇿🇦 (@pmcafrica) February 27, 2024