In a significant development, authorities in Eswatini have reportedly apprehended the alleged perpetrators behind the murder of AKA, marking a breakthrough in the case that has gripped the nation for over a year. Police Minister Bheki Cele and National Police Commissioner Fannie Masemola confirmed this pivotal update during an urgent briefing held in Durban.
AKA, the prominent rapper, was fatally shot in Durban on February 10, 2023. Now, after extensive investigations, six individuals have been arrested in connection with his murder. According to Minister Cele, among those arrested are a coordinator, two shooters, two spotters, and the organizer of firearms and vehicles implicated in the crime.
The arrests shed light on the meticulous planning behind the attack. Law enforcement revealed that one of the spotters had trailed AKA from the airport upon his arrival in Durban on the tragic day. Moreover, General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi of the KZN police disclosed that multiple vehicles were deployed in the operation, with four vehicles recovered along with firearms and cartridges. Notably, the suspects had sought refuge in a house in Eswatini, with the eldest being 36 years old.
General Mkhwanazi provided insights into the timeline of arrests, emphasizing the complexities of the operation. He revealed that while the first arrest occurred on April 22, subsequent apprehensions were made on October 24 and December 14. However, he clarified that the two shooters detained in Eswatini were initially arrested for other offenses, including the murder of AKA.
[JUST IN] The @SAPoliceService this hour announces a breakthrough in the murder of South African musician #AKA and friend Tebello. Police investigations have led to the have arrest of SIX people including the shooters, spotters, and the coordinator of the hit. pic.twitter.com/3rcHfqLY73
— Lirandzu Themba (@LirandzuThemba) February 27, 2024
Eswatini Times Remained Resolute In Its Reporting
The accuracy of the arrests was initially disputed, but the Eswatini Times remained resolute in its reporting, eventually proven correct.
The story is out already…… https://t.co/nrAgpYeRZr pic.twitter.com/Fxyasv6jux
— Raulphy Makopo (@RaulphyMakopo) February 27, 2024
Despite criticism for leaking sensitive information related to the investigation, the publication stood by its coverage, including claims that the suspects were paid R800,000 for the hit.
UPDATE: Another twist in the matter of South African hitmen arrested in the Kingdom of Eswatini. Although Lt General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi, the provincial commissioner in KwaZulu-Natal, yesterday denied that the suspects are linked to the murder of musician AKA and his friend in… pic.twitter.com/McS5YTAOQy
— Sihle Mavuso (@ZANewsFlash) February 27, 2024
As the investigation progresses, the suspects will face a slew of charges, including murder, conspiracy to commit murder, attempted murder, unlawful possession of firearms and ammunition, and money laundering. The breakthrough brings hope for justice and closure to AKA’s loved ones and fans, signaling a pivotal step forward in the pursuit of truth and accountability.