The Malesela Teffo Revelation: Conspiracy Theory or Credible Threat to the NPA?
Opinion
Jul 19, 2025
AKA and Tibz Murder Trial Postponed to June 2026 as Pre-Trial Issues Continue
By Globalza
The trial of five men accused of killing rapper AKA and businessman Tibz Motsoane has been postponed to 19 June 2026, as the state and defence finalise pre-trial matters and a trial judge is appointed.
AKA and Tibz Murder Trial Postponed to June 2026 as Pre-Trial Issues Continue
The pre-trial hearing of five men accused of murdering award-winning rapper Kiernan “AKA” Forbes and businessman Tebello “Tibz” Motsoane has been postponed to 19 June 2026. The matter was back in court on Wednesday, where the state and defense discussed outstanding issues, particularly around witness statements.
According to the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA), the lengthy postponement will allow both sides to finalize any remaining pre-trial matters and for a trial judge to be appointed.
One of the key points of contention in recent months has been the disclosure of certain witness statements and names, which the state had initially withheld. The defense had considered bringing a formal application to compel the release of these details. However, Wednesday’s proceedings confirmed that the parties have now reached an amicable resolution on the matter, with common ground established between the state and defence.
The five accused face charges related to the high-profile double murder that took place in Durban in February 2023, when AKA and Tibz were gunned down outside a popular restaurant. The case has drawn significant public attention, with calls for swift justice.
Until the trial officially begins next year, the legal teams will work to finalize preparations, ensuring all procedural requirements are met ahead of what is expected to be one of South Africa’s most closely watched murder trials in recent history.
