The family of revered South African rapper Kiernan Forbes alias AKA has heaved a sigh of relief after two brothers, Siyabonga Gezani and Malusi David Ndimande, linked to the murders of AKA and Tebello “Tibz” Motsoane were extradited to South Africa.
Nairobi News has learnt the pair was finally handed to South Africa on Tuesday, November 11, after months of legal delays and a withdrawn appeal in Eswatini.
The brothers were handed over to South African authorities in a high-security Interpol-led operation.
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According to reports from South Africa, the two arrived at King Shaka International Airport in Durban on Tuesday and were due to have since appeared in the Durban Magistrate’s Court to face charges of murder, conspiracy to commit murder, and unlawful possession of firearms and ammunition.
The operation followed a lengthy extradition process after the pair initially opposed being sent back to South Africa, claiming their safety would be at risk.
Speaking to eNCA moments after their arrival, AKA’s father, Tony Forbes expressed his relief holding that he is now hopeful that justice will be served.
Tony Forbes said he was relieved that the two suspects had finally arrived back in the country to face justice.
“I’m very … excitement is probably not the right word, but I am pleased that they have arrived on this day. It’s been a long time coming, but for me, I feel satisfied now that when the trial starts, all seven will be on trial. I hope all seven will be on trial together. In particular, the (Ndimande) brother that pulled the trigger,” he said.
“It has taken a long time, but for me, the investigating team along with the NPA (National Prosecuting Authority) kept me abreast over the last two and a half years. The day when they called to say they have arrested the two brothers in Eswatini, my expectations were managed,” he added.
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He reiterated that authorities had always been transparent about the complexity of the extradition process.
“Today it is happening, so I am very pleased with that,” said Tony.
The Ndimande brothers are expected to appear in court soon.
They face multiple charges, including the murders of AKA and Tibz outside Wish restaurant on Florida Road in Durban in February 2023.
Police have confirmed that the pair are also linked to two other murder cases involving taxi industry figures in KwaZulu-Natal.
Their arrival brings to seven the total number of men arrested in connection with the killings.
Addressing journalists at the Airport, South African Police Service (SAPS) spokesperson Colonel Athlenda Mathe said police would ensure the brothers remain behind bars.
“I don’t think they should fear for their safety. It is us who must ensure that they stay behind bars, where they don’t kill more people in South Africa,” said Mathe.
AKA was shot dead in the coastal city of Durban, along with a friend in February 2023.
The rapper was killed alongside his close friend, chef and entrepreneur Tebello ‘Tibz’ Motsoane as they were walking towards their car from a restaurant.
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