AKA Murder Trial Set for July 2026 After Judge Scolds Lawyers
The Durban High Court has set down the trial dates for the murder of South African rapper Kiernan “AKA” Forbes and his friend Tebello “Tibz” Motsoane.
The trial is scheduled to begin in July 2026 and will run until mid-October 2026. Judge Jacqueline Henriques expressed frustration with the slow pace of pre-trial conference proceedings, urging both the state and defense to expedite the process.
AKA and Motsoane were gunned down outside Wish Restaurant on Florida Road in Durban in February 2023. Five men, Lindokuhle Mkhwanazi, Lindani Ndimande, Siyanda Myeza, Mziwethemba Gwabeni, and Lindokuhle Lindo Ndimande, have been charged with their murders and are facing additional charges, including attempted murder.
The state plans to call 45 witnesses to testify, and witness statements will be given to the defense six weeks before the trial starts.
The defense counsel has expressed interest in compelling the state to provide witness statements, but Judge Henriques cautioned against discussing sensitive information in open court, emphasizing the need to protect witnesses.
The accused have secured prominent lawyers, with Advocate Simphiwe Mlotshwa representing Lindokuhle Mkhwanazi and Lindokuhle Lindo Ndimande, while Advocates Paul Jorgensen and Mkhululi Nkomo will represent Lindani Ndimande and Siyanda Myeza, respectively. Deputy Director of Public Prosecutions Advocate Lawrence Gcaba will lead the state’s case.
A pre-trial conference is scheduled for June 19, 2026, where both parties will finalize outstanding issues. The trial’s success hinges on the cooperation and preparedness of both the state and defense, with Judge Henriques stressing the importance of having a trial-ready presiding officer
