Witness Testifies on AKA and Tibz Shooting in Durban Trial

A witness testifying in the murder trial concerning the deaths of South African hip-hop star Kiernan “AKA” Forbes and his associate Tebello “Tibz” Motsoane has delivered a harrowing account of the aftermath of their fatal 2023 shooting in Durban.

During court proceedings, the witness detailed the violent and chaotic scene that unfolded immediately after gunfire erupted. According to the testimony, Motsoane was seen attempting to crawl away from the site of the attack in the moments following the gunshots before both men ultimately succumbed to their injuries on the pavement.

Accountability and Public Safety

The fatal shooting of Forbes and Motsoane outside a Durban restaurant in 2023 shook the South African music landscape and prompted widespread mourning across the continent. AKA stood as one of the defining voices of modern African rap, while Motsoane was an established author, chef, and former artist manager who played a key role in shaping contemporary urban culture in South Africa.

For the African music business, the progression of the trial highlights persistent concerns regarding the physical security of touring performers and industry executives. High-profile incidents involving public violence near hospitality and nightlife venues have spurred broader conversations among talent managers, promoters, and venue operators regarding protective measures for artists traveling between cities for engagements.

The testimony forms part of the ongoing judicial process as authorities seek to establish accountability for the killings that cut short two prominent careers in South Africa’s entertainment sector.

Source: Briefly SA Entertainment