AKA Murder Trial Delayed: Defence Lawyer’s Absence Postpones Durban High Court Pretrial

The high-profile murder case involving five men accused of killing South African rapper Kiernan “AKA” Forbes and his friend, celebrity chef Tebello “Tibz” Motsoane, has hit another delay.

On Thursday, the Durban High Court postponed the pretrial conference after the appointed defence advocate, Simphiwe Mlotshwa, was confirmed to be out of the country.

Senior prosecutor Lawrence Gcaba requested the postponement, informing the court that Mlotshwa—who will now represent all five accused—was currently in Eswatini and unable to attend.

Accused Reappear in Court as Case Progresses Slowly

The five accused—Lindokuhle Thabani Mkhwanazi (30), Lindani Zenzele Ndimande (35), Siyanda Eddie Myeza (21), Mziwethemba Harvey Gwabeni (36), and Lindokuhle Mhlaliseni Ndimande (29)—once again appeared briefly in the Durban Magistrate’s Court.

The group was arrested in February 2024 in connection with the fatal shooting that claimed the lives of Forbes and Motsoane outside Wish restaurant on Florida Road, Durban, on February 10, 2023.

In February this year, the accused were served with indictments moving the case to the high court, signalling the formal beginning of their murder trial.

AKA Murder, Firearm Charges Await Trial Date

The accused face a slew of serious charges, including murder, attempted murder, and possession of unlawful firearms and ammunition. The case remains one of the most closely watched in recent South African legal history, drawing nationwide attention from fans and justice advocates alike.

Presiding Judge Jacqueline Henriques officially adjourned the matter to June 12, allowing time for Mlotshwa to return and prepare to represent all five men.

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