Six persons arrested in connection with murder of South African rapper AKA

Six suspects have been arrested in connection with the murder of celebrated South African rapper Kiernan Forbes, known professionally as AKA, the South African Police Service announced.

AKA, along with his friend Jabulani Ngcobo, were fatally shot outside a restaurant in Johannesburg in February 2023.

Following a year-long investigation, police have now arrested six individuals allegedly involved in facilitating and committing the murders.

The South African police say the suspects include two shooters, two individuals who provided surveillance and tracking of AKA's movements, one man who supplied the vehicles and firearms used, and the suspected mastermind behind coordinating the hit.

According to the police, the suspects range in age from 22 to 36.

Two vehicles used during the crime were rented, while two others have also been recovered by investigators. Ballistic evidence links the recovered firearm to AKA's murder.

It has also been revealed that tracking of AKA began when he arrived at OR Tambo International Airport prior to the shooting.

Arrests were conducted over different periods - the first on April 22nd, another on October 24th, two more on December 14th in eSwatini where some suspects had fled. One suspect is still at large.

Payment details for coordinating the hit were not disclosed but Minister Bheki Cele said the amount was "not much".

The six suspects are expected to appear in Court on Thursday, February 29, to face charges of murder, conspiracy to commit murder and illegal possession of firearms and ammunition.