The murder trial of Kiernan 'AKA' Forbes and Tebello 'Tibz' Motsoane continued on October 6, 2026, at the Durban High Court. Six out of seven accused have applied for their trials to be separated from their co-accused, Eddie Myeza, who faces additional charges. The accused claim that a joint trial will cause unnecessary delays. All seven men are charged with orchestrating the killing of Forbes and Motsoane in February 2023.
The accused, Lindokuhle Mkhwanazi, submitted an affidavit stating that he has been in custody for almost two years and seven months without bail. Mkhwanazi's lawyer, Simphiwe Mlotshwa, read the affidavit into the record, highlighting the potential for prolonged trials, similar to the Senzo Meyiwa case. Myeza also submitted an affidavit supporting the separation of trials, stating that his co-accused should not have to sit through a matter that doesn't involve them.
Myeza is the only accused facing additional charges related to the May 2022 murder of Gift Khanyile. The State consolidated both matters into a joint trial due to a link in the evidence. However, the accused argue that a joint trial will prejudice them and delay the trial. The application for separation of trials was brought by Mkhwanazi, who wants Myeza's May 2022 murder charges to be heard separately from the Forbes and Motsoane trial.
The trial is being held at the Durban High Court, with all seven accused pleading not guilty to the charges. The accused face charges relating to the killing of Forbes and Motsoane, while Myeza also faces charges related to the Khanyile murder. The State has consolidated both cases due to a link in the evidence. The separation of trials application is being heard on the second day of proceedings.
Mkhwanazi's affidavit drew attention to the lengthy duration of his detention without bail. His lawyer highlighted the potential for prolonged trials, citing the Senzo Meyiwa case as an example. The accused and their lawyers argue that a separate trial will ensure a fair and speedy trial.
The court will consider the application for separation of trials, taking into account the arguments presented by the accused and the State. A decision on the application is expected to be made in due course. The trial will continue, with the accused's lawyers presenting their case for a separate trial.
The case has garnered significant attention, with many following the developments in the trial. The accused, including Mkhwanazi and Myeza, have expressed concerns about the joint trial. The court will weigh the merits of the application and make a decision based on the evidence presented.
Key points
- Six of seven accused in AKA murder trial seek separate trials, citing unnecessary delays.
- Accused claim joint trial will prejudice them and delay the trial.
- Decision on separation of trials application expected to be made in due course.
