Ndimande Brothers charged after extradition
Two brothers, Siyabonga and Malusi Ndimande, have been formally charged in connection with the high-profile murders of South African rapper Kiernan “AKA” Forbes and his close friend, celebrity chef Tebello “Tibz” Motsoane, following their extradition from Eswatini. The Ndimande Brothers charged after extradition marks a major development in the ongoing AKA murder case that has gripped South Africa since February 2023.
The extradition and arrest
The Ndimande Brothers arrived in South Africa under heavy police escort after months of legal battles in Eswatini aimed at preventing their return. Their extradition process was closely followed across both nations, as the brothers were identified early in the investigation as key suspects in the Tibz Motsoane shooting and the murder of AKA outside a Durban restaurant.
According to the South African Police Service (SAPS), the two brothers were flown into Durban’s King Shaka International Airport under strict security, with their hands and feet shackled. Their arrival symbolizes progress in one of the country’s most publicized murder investigations.
The Eswatini extradition was finalized after the court dismissed their appeal, paving the way for the South African authorities to bring them to justice. This move demonstrates strengthened cross-border cooperation in tackling organized crime and high-profile cases within the Southern African region.
Details of the charges
Upon their arrival, the Ndimande Brothers were charged with two counts of murder, attempted murder, and unlawful possession of a firearm. These charges stem from the deadly shooting that took place outside Wish Restaurant on Florida Road, Durban, in February 2023.
The brothers are set to appear alongside five other suspects already in custody. Together, they form part of a group accused of orchestrating and executing the coordinated hit on AKA, which also claimed the life of Tibz Motsoane.
Law enforcement officials revealed that one of the Ndimande Brothers may have pulled the trigger, based on statements and forensic evidence gathered during the two-year investigation. Police spokesperson Brigadier Athlenda Mathe told eNCA that the extradition and formal charges represent a breakthrough moment for the South African crime news cycle.
Family reactions and public sentiment
The family of the late rapper has expressed both relief and continued concern following the extradition and charging of the suspects. Tony Forbes, AKA’s father, told reporters that he is “pleased with the progress” but emphasized that “many questions remain unanswered,” particularly regarding who ordered the killing and why.
Lynn Forbes, AKA’s mother, shared a heartfelt post on social media shortly after the announcement, writing, “This South African air is suffocating today … I cannot breathe.” The message captured the emotional toll the case continues to take on the family and the nation.
Public response across social media has been intense, with hashtags like #JusticeForAKA and #TibzMotsoane trending soon after news broke of the Ndimande Brothers charged after extradition. Fans from across Africa expressed renewed hope that justice might finally be served for the beloved artists.
Background: The night of the tragedy
On February 10, 2023, Kiernan “AKA” Forbes was gunned down outside Wish Restaurant in Durban shortly after greeting friends and fans. CCTV footage later revealed two armed men approaching and shooting at close range before escaping. The rapper died instantly, while Tibz Motsoane, standing nearby, was fatally struck as collateral damage.
The incident sent shockwaves through South Africa’s entertainment industry. Known for hits such as “Fela In Versace” and “Lemons (Lemonade)”, AKA was not only one of the country’s biggest music stars but also a symbol of creative excellence and youth aspiration.
Police investigators described the attack as a well-coordinated hit, suggesting extensive planning and surveillance. Though AKA was believed to be the intended target, questions about the motive and the masterminds behind the operation persist.
Legal proceedings and upcoming hearings
Following their extradition, the Ndimande Brothers made a brief court appearance in Durban, where their case was postponed for further investigation. They are expected to return to court on November 25 for a bail hearing.
The case has been combined with that of the five other accused, who remain in custody awaiting trial in the Durban High Court. Legal analysts suggest that the proceedings could extend well into 2026 due to the complexity of the evidence and the number of defendants involved.
In a related statement, the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) emphasized that the Eswatini extradition was conducted in full compliance with international law and in coordination with both countries’ justice departments.
AKA’s legacy and public impact
While the court case continues, AKA’s legacy as a pioneering South African hip-hop artist endures. His music remains among the most streamed in the country, and tributes continue to pour in from global artists such as Burna Boy, Nasty C, and Cassper Nyovest.
Cultural commentators argue that the resolution of the AKA murder case is vital not only for justice but also for restoring public faith in the country’s justice system. The case has become symbolic of South Africa’s struggle against violent crime and impunity.
The Tibz Motsoane shooting also continues to draw sympathy, as he was remembered as a beloved figure in South African culinary and creative circles. His death alongside AKA was described by many as “a loss of two cultural giants in one night.”
The broader fight against crime
The Ndimande Brothers charged after extradition case underscores broader issues within South Africa’s ongoing battle against violent crime. With one of the world’s highest homicide rates, the country has faced criticism for slow investigative processes and under-resourced law enforcement.
However, the successful Eswatini extradition demonstrates that regional collaboration and persistent police work can produce tangible results. Authorities have praised both countries’ justice departments for ensuring due process and for strengthening cooperation in cross-border criminal matters.
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Looking ahead
As the trial date approaches, the families of both victims — along with fans and media observers — await closure. The Ndimande Brothers charged after extradition stands as one of the most important criminal cases in recent South African memory.
For now, all eyes remain on the Durban High Court, where justice for AKA and Tibz Motsoane may finally begin to unfold.
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