The investigation into the murders of South African rapper Kiernan “AKA” Forbes and his close friend Tebello “Tibz” Motsoane continues to gather momentum, with KwaZulu-Natal Police Commissioner Lieutenant General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi indicating that more arrests could still be made.
More than three years after the shocking double murder that sent shockwaves across South Africa and the music industry, police say their work is far from over. Authorities believe additional suspects may still be linked to the carefully planned assassination that claimed the lives of AKA and Tibz outside a popular restaurant on Durban’s Florida Road in February 2023.
Investigation Still Active
Speaking during a recent police briefing, General Mkhwanazi revealed that investigators continue to gather evidence and follow several leads.
Although seven suspects have already been arrested and charged in connection with the case, police believe the investigation has not yet reached its conclusion. According to Mkhwanazi, more individuals may have played different roles in the alleged murder plot, and detectives are working to ensure everyone involved is brought before the courts.
His comments have renewed public interest in one of South Africa’s most high-profile murder investigations.
Seven Accused Already Before Court
To date, seven men have been arrested in connection with the murders of AKA and Tibz.
The accused face numerous charges, including:
● Murder
● Conspiracy to commit murder
● Attempted murder
● Unlawful possession of firearms
● Unlawful possession of ammunition
● Money laundering
The suspects have appeared before the Durban High Court, where the matter has been postponed on several occasions as investigations continue and legal processes unfold. ([npa.gov.za][1])
A Carefully Planned Attack
Investigators have consistently described the killings as a coordinated assassination rather than a random act of violence.
AKA and Tibz were standing outside the Wish Restaurant on Florida Road after enjoying a meal with friends when gunmen approached and opened fire.
The rapper died at the scene, while Tibz also succumbed to his injuries.
The brazen shooting, captured on CCTV cameras, immediately sparked a nationwide investigation involving multiple specialised police units.
Police have since alleged that several people performed different roles in planning and executing the attack, including surveillance, logistics, financial coordination and carrying out the shooting itself. ([npa.gov.za][1])
Public Interest Remains High
The murder of AKA remains one of South Africa’s most talked-about criminal cases.
As one of the country’s biggest hip-hop stars, AKA had built a successful music career spanning more than a decade, producing numerous chart-topping hits and earning multiple awards.
His death devastated fans across Africa, with thousands gathering at memorial services and paying tribute on social media.
Many South Africans continue to closely follow every court appearance, hoping the full truth behind the murders will eventually emerge.
Viral Claims About CCTV Footage
In recent days, social media posts have circulated claiming police have released “very clear footage” showing the actual shooter responsible for AKA’s death.
However, there has been no official confirmation from the South African Police Service that newly released CCTV footage identifying the gunman has been made public.
Much of the video currently circulating online consists of previously known surveillance clips or recycled social media content accompanied by misleading captions.
Readers are encouraged to rely on official police statements and verified court proceedings rather than unverified viral posts. npa.gov.za
More Arrests Could Follow
General Mkhwanazi’s latest comments suggest investigators are still identifying other individuals who may have been involved behind the scenes.
Police have not disclosed how many additional suspects they believe remain outstanding, nor have they revealed which specific roles those individuals may have played.
Law enforcement officials say they are determined to ensure that everyone connected to the alleged conspiracy is held accountable.
The commissioner indicated that investigators continue working with evidence collected over several years and remain confident that further breakthroughs are possible. Cape Times
Family Still Seeking Justice
For the families of AKA and Tibz, the lengthy legal process has been emotionally difficult.
While the arrests already made marked a significant milestone, relatives have repeatedly expressed hope that every person responsible for planning and carrying out the murders will eventually face justice.
The case has also highlighted broader concerns about organised crime, contract killings and firearm-related violence in South Africa.
The Road Ahead
With seven accused currently before the courts and police indicating that additional arrests remain possible, the AKA and Tibz murder case is far from over.
South Africans continue to watch the proceedings closely as prosecutors build their case and investigators pursue any remaining suspects.
General Mkhwanazi’s latest update serves as a reminder that the investigation remains active, and authorities believe there may still be more people linked to one of the country’s most shocking murders.
As court proceedings continue, many hope the full story behind the assassination of AKA and Tibz will finally be uncovered, bringing long-awaited answers to their families, friends and millions of South Africans
