Key Suspect in AKA Murder Case Refuses to Surrender Crucial Evidence
One of the suspects in the high-profile murder case of rapper AKA and his friend Tibz has refused to hand over his cellphone to authorities.
This crucial piece of evidence has become a focal point in the ongoing investigation. Mziwethemba Gwabeni, identified as the organizer of the hit, has reportedly declined to surrender his device, hindering the case’s progress.
Also Read: AKA Murder Update: SAPS Finds Suspects And Guns Used In Heinous Crime
Court Proceedings
This came to light as the five suspects linked to the murders are set to return to the Durban Magistrates Court on Thursday, August 8, for further investigation.
The court previously denied their bail on Wednesday, May 15. Magistrate Vincent Hlatshwayo remarked that the suspects failed to justify their release on bail.
Details of the Arrests
The suspects, Lindokuhle Mkhwanazi, Lindani Ndimande, Siyanda Myeza, Mziwethemba Gwabeni, and Lindokuhle Ndimande, were arrested in March for their alleged involvement in the murders of AKA and Tibz.
AKA and Tibz were shot on February 10, 2023, outside Wish on Florida in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal.
Financial Investigations
During the upcoming court session, the state will present findings about the financial status of the suspects.
According to The Daily Sun, a significant part of this investigation revolves around whether authorities have managed to retrieve Gwabeni’s cell phone.
“Gwabeni was identified as the organiser of the hit. He allegedly arranged the equipment and compensated the other suspects,” the investigating officer noted.
Evidence Against Gwabeni
Investigators have accused Gwabeni of orchestrating the murder plot, including tracking AKA from King Shaka Airport to Hilton Hotel and using his virtual card for parking at the airport.
His refusal to hand over his cellphone adds a layer of complexity to the case, potentially holding key information.
Also Read: AKA Murder Suspects Case Postponed For Bail Verification
Extradition Challenges
Furthermore, the South African authorities are also dealing with the extradition of two other suspects, Siyabonga and Melusi Ndimande, from Eswatini.
The brothers, arrested in Mbabane, are accused of involvement in the murders and have resisted returning to South Africa. They appeared in Manzini Magistrates Court in eSwatini on Monday, July 29, with a ruling on their extradition expected on Friday, August 16.