South African Rapper AKA Shot, Killed In Durban 

By Olanrewaju Falayi

South African rapper AKA, born Kiernan Forbes, was shot and killed outside a nightspot on Durban’s Florida Road on Friday evening, according to local police.  

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The family has confirmed the death of the award-winning rapper.  

The 35-year-old rapper, who was due to perform in Durban on Friday, was scheduled to release his new album, “Mass Country,” on February 27. 

“I can confirm that two men were killed and one of them is a well-known rapper. Police will not be releasing any names of the victims yet until a full investigation is completed,” said law enforcement spokesperson Robert Netshiunda. 

According to a paramedic, Garrith Jamieson, the shooting occurred just after 10:15 PM local time, and “paramedics met total chaos and a scene where two men, believed to be in their late 30s, sustained multiple gunshot wounds.” Despite life-saving efforts, both victims succumbed to their injuries. 

In their statement, the Forbes family said, “To us, Kiernan Jarryd Forbes, was a son, brother, grandson, nephew, cousin and friend, most importantly father to his beloved daughter Kairo. To many, he was AKA, Supamega, Bhova and the many other names of affection his legion of fans called him by. Our son was loved and he gave love in return.” 

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Fans and fellow artists took to social media to express their condolences for the late rapper, who had over 489,000 monthly listeners on Spotify and was known for hits such as “Lemons (Lemonade),” “Fela in Versace,” and “All Eyes on Me.” 

“The South African music industry has lost a great talent. AKA was a rising star and his passing is a great loss to the industry. Our thoughts and prayers go out to his family and loved ones,” said fellow South African rapper Cassper Nyovest. 

The shooting occurred in Durban’s popular entertainment district, Florida Road, and brought the area to a standstill as police closed the road. The cause of the shooting is still under investigation.

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