AKA, also known as Kiernan Jarryd Forbes, was one of South Africa’s top rappers. His family has revealed that he was shot dead outside a restaurant in the beachfront city of Durban.
Forbes’ family paid tribute to him in a statement posted on one of his social media accounts.
“To us, Kiernan Jarryd Forbes was a son, brother, grandson, nephew, cousin, and friend, most importantly father to his beloved daughter Kairo,” they wrote.
“To many, he was AKA, Supa Mega, Bhova, and the many other names of affection his legion of fans called him by. Our son was loved and gave love in return.”
— AKA (@akaworldwide) February 11, 2023
Tebello “Tibz” Motsoane, a chef and businessman, AKA’s close pal was also murdered along with him.
The two are believed to have been shot while they were en route to a nightclub for a performance as part of Forbes’ birthday celebrations.
The reason for the murder is being looked into by the Durban Police in South Africa.
The rapper and his buddy were walking to their car when they were accosted by two armed individuals, who shot them at close range, according to police spokesperson Colonel Robert Netshiunda, who spoke to the BBC.
The attackers then walked away from the scene.
Hours before his death, the 35-year-old posted on social media about his upcoming album, Mass Country, which is set for release later this month.
South Africa has one of the highest murder rates in the world and shootings are not uncommon.
