AKA murder accused transferred to eBhongweni C-Max as case postponed over missing extradition documents
The Durban Magistrate’s Court has postponed the case against brothers accused of murdering award-winning rapper Kiernan “AKA” Forbes and his close friend Tebello “Tibz” Motsoane to 4 March 2026, amid concerns raised by the defence over missing extradition documents from eSwatini.
Siyabonga Gezani Ndimande and Malusi Dave Ndimande appeared briefly in court on Friday via video link from the eBhongweni Super Maximum Correctional Centre (C-Max) in Kokstad, where they have recently been transferred under tight security.
This marked the brothers’ third court appearance since they were extradited from eSwatini in November 2025. The defence team learned on 2 January 2026 that the accused had been moved, and it was confirmed during their court appearance on 9 January 2026 that the transfer had taken place in December 2025.
During proceedings, the defence argued that the transfer to the high-security facility has made it difficult to properly consult with their clients and prepare an effective defence.
Advocate Simphiwe Mlotshwa, appearing for the defence, told the court that they are still awaiting a complete set of extradition records from the Kingdom of eSwatini. These documents detail the legal process that led to the brothers’ return to South Africa and are considered critical to ensuring a fair trial.
Without the full documentation, the defence said it cannot adequately take instructions or proceed with preparations.
The Ndimande brothers face 24 charges, including the murders of Forbes and Motsoane, conspiracy to commit murder, attempted murder, unlawful possession of firearms and ammunition, and money laundering. In a separate matter, they are also charged with the murder of a taxi boss who was killed in Amanzimtoti.
Police allege that the brothers form part of a broader criminal syndicate linked to several murders and attempted murders across KwaZulu-Natal and Gauteng.
The pair were arrested in Mbabane in February 2024 following a regional manhunt. After exhausting legal avenues, they dropped their appeal against extradition, paving the way for their handover to South African authorities. The extradition was approved by the eSwatini High Court, and in November last year, the brothers were escorted back to South Africa by high-risk SAPS officers under heavy security.
Forbes and Motsoane were fatally shot outside a restaurant on Florida Road in Durban on 10 February 2023. The brazen attack, which was captured on CCTV footage, shocked the country and drew widespread public outrage.
National Police Commissioner General Fannie Masemola previously praised eSwatini authorities for their cooperation in the extradition process. Security around the brothers remains tight as they await their next court appearance.
No tags for this post.
