This article is from the source 'bbc' and was first published or seen on . It last changed over 40 days ago and won't be checked again for changes.

You can find the current article at its original source at https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/live/world-africa-68271295

The article has changed 118 times. There is an RSS feed of changes available.

Version 73 Version 74
Africa Live: Suspects in court over murder of South African rapper AKA - BBC News Africa Live: Suspects in court over murder of South African rapper AKA - BBC News
(32 minutes later)
Kyle Zeeman Chris Ewokor
BBC News, Johannesburg BBC News
Democratic
Five of the seven men accused of being involved in the murder of South African rapper Kiernan Forbes, popularly known as AKA, and his close friend, celebrity chef and entrepreneur Tebello "Tibz" Motshoane, have made an initial court appearance. Republic of Congo President Félix Tshisekedi has condemned the violence in Chad following the deadly attack on the headquarters of the National Security Agency (ANSE).
The proceedings, which were broadcast live on several South African TV channels, have now been postponed until next week. Several people were killed in Wednesday's assault.
When the five first walked into the dock, they stood looking down with their faces covered. Mr Tshisekedi expressed concerns that the developments in Chad “are likely to disrupt the process of political transition", with a presidential election scheduled for 6 May.
The prosecutor read out 10 charges, including murder, conspiracy to commit murder, attempted murder and unlawful possession of firearms and ammunition. Mr Tshisekedi expressed his solidarity with the transitional authorities in the country.
AKA and Motshoane were gunned down outside a restaurant in the coastal city of Durban a year ago. The murder shocked South Africa, which has one of the highest crime rates in the world He welcomed their decision for a quick "investigation to shed full light on the events in question with a view to identifying those responsible" and take them to court.
Court proceedings were watched on by AKA's father, Tony Forbes, Police Minister Bheki Cele and the province's police commissioner Lt Gen Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi. This is the first major reaction
The state asked for a postponement for further investigation. outside Chad since the alleged attack, which the government has been blamed on the opposition Socialist Party Without Borders (PSF).
It said it planned to add two other suspects recently arrested in Eswatini to the case, adding to the delay. The party denies it, saying its officials were there to look for the body of a member who had
The prosecutor said their extradition process was currently under way. He would not be drawn on when this would likely be concluded, but said it could take a few months. been arrested and then killed. It accuses soldiers of opening fire on its
The five accused did not make any comment in court but their lawyers said they would apply for bail, which the state intends to oppose. members.
Speaking to the eNCA news channel, Mr Forbes said he had prepared himself to face his son's alleged murderers. It comes amid concerns over the whereabouts of the leader of
"I want to look them in the eye," he said. "I hope this is the start of a phase where we learn who did this, who commissioned this and the appropriate punishment is given." the party, Yaya Dillo.
Interviewed during a break in court he commented on the suspects having their faces covered. He said "we should be able to see who they are". There has been tension in the Chadian capital N'djamena, amid heavy gunfire in several areas including the headquarter of the opposition party.
The five were later ordered to remove their face coverings.
More on this story:
Seven suspects arrested for South African rapper's killing
The murdered rapper from South Africa 'destined for greatness'
FacebookFacebook
TwitterTwitter
ShareView more share optionsShare this postCopy this linkRead more about these links.ShareView more share optionsShare this postCopy this linkRead more about these links.
Copy this linkCopy this link