Popular South African rapper Kiernan J. Forbes, also known as AKA, has been shot and killed in a nightclub shooting.
According to reports by the police in Durban, he was allegedly murdered in a drive-by shooting on Florida Road on Friday night, February 10, 2023.
Some persons in two cars were believed to have opened fire on the rapper around 10pm on Friday.
AKA who was meant to celebrate his birthday at the YUGO nightclub located in Stamford Hill in Durban (South Africa), was killed in a drive-by outside a restaurant on Florida road.
In addition to AKA, his bodyguard was also injured in the shooting, and another close friend of the rapper was killed.
Meanwhile Forbes’ family has also confirmed his passing in a statement, which was released on Saturday morning.
The statement, which was released by his parents, Tony and Lynn Forbes, read: “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, Supermega, Bhova, and the many other names of affection his legion of fans called him by.
“Our son was loved and gave love in return. In this time of grief, we appeal for your compassion, space and time to congregate as a family and decide on the upcoming days.”
AKA, rose to prominence in the music industry in 2011 with the release of his hit single Victory Lap, which was taken from his debut album, Alter Ego.
He went on to release more music, got nominations and won awards for his music, including the Metro FM Awards, SA Music Award and an MTV music award. He has a daughter with musician DJ Zintle Jiyane and was in a relationship with rapper Nadia Nakai.
In April 2021, his fiancée, Anele Tembe, died after falling from the 10th floor of the Pepperclub Hotel in Cape Town.