AKA MURDER TRIAL: Six Accused Seek Split as All Seven Plead Not Guilty
The trial over the killings of Kiernan “AKA” Forbes and Tebello “Tibz” Motsoane opened with a legal fight over whether all seven accused should be tried together.
Six accused want their proceedings separated from those of Siyanda Myeza, who faces additional charges beyond those shared by the group. The application emerged as proceedings began in the Durban High Court on Monday, 5 October.
All seven pleaded not guilty to the charges put to them, including murder, attempted murder and firearms offences. The matter was postponed to Tuesday, 6 October, to allow the defence to file a replying affidavit and heads of argument.
During Monday’s proceedings, prosecutor Lawrence Gcaba argued that the pending separation application did not prevent the court from putting the charges to the accused.
Forbes and Motsoane were shot dead outside a restaurant on Durban’s Florida Road on 10 February 2023.
More than three years later, the case has reached trial, with the prosecution required to prove its allegations against each accused. All seven remain presumed innocent unless convicted.
