Two brothers have been charged with the murder of South African rapper Kiernan Forbes, popularly known as “AKA”, following their extradition from neighbouring Eswatini.

Siyabonga and Malusi Ndimande were brought back to the country after the failure of a lengthy legal attempt to block their return.

Forbes, an award-winning hip-hop artist, was killed outside a restaurant in the coastal city of Durban in 2023 along with his close friend, celebrity chef Tebello “Tibz” Motsoane.

South Africa has one of the highest murder rates in the world but this shooting shocked the country.

The brothers have also been charged with Motsoane’s murder and will appear alongside five other accused already in custody when the trial begins. They also face charges of attempted murder and unlawful possession of a firearm, among others.

At the time of his murder, Forbes had been in Durban to perform during his birthday celebrations.

Police described the attack on the two men as a coordinated hit.

Forbes was one of South Africa’s most celebrated hip-hop artists after releasing three solo albums.

He is also known for his collaborations with other performers, including Nigeria’s Burna Boy.