The two Ndimande brothers linked to the brutal murders of superstar rapper Kiernan “AKA” Forbes and his friend, renowned chef Tebello “Tibz” Motsoane, have been remanded in custody until the new year. Siyabonga and Malusi Ndimande will spend the Christmas period behind bars following a brief hearing at the Durban Magistrate’s Court, a development that brings a sliver of sombre solace to the grieving families.
The pair, who are facing charges for the double homicide that occurred outside the now-shuttered Wish restaurant on Durban’s bustling Florida Road in February 2023, appeared before Magistrate Irfaan Khallil. The proceedings were focused on the logistics of the impending legal battle. Advocate Simphiwe Mlotshwa, representing Malusi Ndimande, addressed the court regarding the defence’s preparations. He stated,
“We as the defence have disclosed the information we require. It was the state’s view that we send a letter highlighting in particular what we require. We ask for the postponement to January so that we can serve the state with the letter.”
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Prosecutor Lawrence Gcaba confirmed the state had received this request, leading the magistrate to formally adjourn the high-profile case until January 9.
Ndimande Brothers Charged With Murder Of AKA To Spend Christmas In Jail
The public gallery held a figure of intense public interest: AKA’s mother, Lynn Forbes. Her presence marked the first time she has attended court since the protracted bail applications for five other men arrested last year in connection with the same crime.
Following the hearing, she was seen approaching the prosecution team. In a poignant moment, she expressed her heartfelt thanks for their diligent work, a gesture acknowledging the complex and drawn-out nature of the extradition and pre-trial processes. Her attendance underscored the immense personal stake the Forbes family has in seeing justice served.
The Ndimande brothers are not the only individuals facing justice for the shocking murders. In a separate but connected case, five other men-Thabani Mkhwanazi, Lindani Zenzele Ndimande, Siyanda Eddie Myeza, Mziwethemba Harvey Gwabeni, and Lindokuhle Mhlaliseni Ndimande-also appeared in court recently.
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Their matter has been adjourned until June 19 of next year to address further pre-trial issues and to appoint a presiding judge. The monumental trial itself is scheduled to unfold in blocks, with the first session set for July 20 to August 21, followed by another commencing on October 6, setting the stage for one of the most closely watched legal dramas in recent South African history.