The Star

Lynn Forbes reacts: 'I can't breathe' as suspects in AKA's murder arrive in South Africa

Alyssia Birjalal|Published

Lynn Forbes with her late son Kiernan "AKA" Forbes in happier times.

Image: Instagram.

Lynn Forbes is feeling heavy-hearted today as the two men accused of killing her award-winning rapper son, Kiernan "AKA" Forbes, have arrived in Durban, South Africa, to face murder charges. 

The tragic shooting took place in February 2023, when AKA and his friend, Tebello "Tibz" Motsoane, were shot outside the Wish restaurant on Florida Road.

Brothers Siyabonga and Malusi Ndimande were arrested by the Eswatini Royal Police earlier this year and have now been brought back to South Africa to face the music.

Earlier today, police spokesperson Colonel Athlenda Mathe confirmed that a special Interpol team had left South Africa to retrieve the brothers.

Siyabonga and Malusi Ndimande have been brought back to South Africa to face charges over the 2023 murder of rapper Kiernan “AKA” Forbes and his friend Tebello “Tibz” Motsoane.

Image: Doctor Ngcobo/Independent Media

"I can confirm that a high-risk team has left South Africa ... Only upon arrival at King Shaka International Airport will our Interpol officers hand them over to the lead investigator in the case, who will then execute a J50 warrant of arrest," said Mathe. 

The Ndimande brothers are facing 23 other charges in addition to AKA and Tibz's murder allegations. 

The brothers will be taken to a police station for further processing and are expected to appear in court soon after.

For Lynn, this day is filled with mixed emotions. Responding to the news of the brothers' landing in South Africa, she posted on Instagram: "If you were the one coming home today … that would be justice for me. Everything else is just process.

"This South African air is suffocating today … I cannot breathe 💔."

AKA's friends are rallying around Lynn during this difficult time.

Jennifer Bala, ex-wife of popular musician Loyiso Bala, commented: "I’m so sorry, my Lynn..I didn’t even know until now. 😞 Sending much love and loads of hugs. 🫂 As much as we all want them to be brought to justice, the trauma and damage is irreversible so I pray you find strength and peace to breathe and keep going. 🙏🏽🤍."

Podcast host L-Tido said: "We love you, aunty Lynn 🙏🏽❤️."

Late rapper Riky Rick's wife, Bianca Jade Naidoo, posted: "Sending you the BIGGEST love ❤️❤️❤️."

Meanwhile, AKA's father, Tony Forbes, was reported to be "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.

“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 ... Today it is happening, so I am very pleased with that," said Tony.