South African rapper AKA, real name Kiernan Forbes, was shot and killed outside a restaurant in the coastal city of Durban on February 10, along with his friend, celebrity chef Tibz Motsoane. KwaZulu-Natal police chief Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi stated that the gunman had approached AKA from behind and shot him at close range in the side of the head. A second gunman then started firing to deter onlookers from responding to the attack.
The shooting occurred in a popular Durban night spot, and police are still investigating to establish the full picture of what happened. No arrests have yet been made, but police say they know the identities of the “two shooters” and are checking the identities of all those who were present at the scene. Investigators are now using the suspects’ data to piece together their communication and movements in the run-up to the killings, according to Gen Mkhwanazi.
While police continue to investigate the shooting, AKA’s father has asked people to stop speculating on social media, stating that the family is focusing on giving their son “a dignified send-off”. A public memorial service will be held at the Sandton convention centre in Johannesburg on Friday, with AKA’s burial scheduled for Saturday.
South African rapper AKA began his musical career as part of the rap group Entity before launching his solo career, and won several awards in South Africa for his music. He was also celebrated internationally, with several nominations for a Black Entertainment Television (BET) Award in the US and an MTV Europe Music Award. The 35-year-old had recently posted about his upcoming album, Mass Country, which is set for release later this month.
AKA’s death has shocked the South African music industry and his large fanbase, who are mourning the loss of one of the country’s most recognisable names in hip-hop.
Image Credit: @AKAworldwide/Instagram
