The Durban Magistrate’s Court has reserved judgment until Wednesday in the bail hearing of Mziwethemba Harvey Gwabeni (36) and Lindokuhle Ndimande (29), who stand accused in the murders of rapper Kiernan “AKA” Forbes and his friend Tebello “Tibz” Motsoane in February 2023.

Magistrate Vincent Hlatshwayo stated that more time was needed to consider the lengthy proceedings and arguments presented on Tuesday. The state, represented by Advocates Elvis Gcweka and Lawrence Gcaba, opposed bail, citing new evidence linking Gwabeni to the crime.

“We have video footage of Gwabeni at King Shaka International Airport upon Mr. Forbes’s arrival, evidence of him following the entourage, standing near the deceased at the vehicle hire area, driving the BMW used in the crime, and telephone records placing him near the hotel,” said Gcaba.

In their defense, Gwabeni and Ndimande, through Advocate Simphiwe Mlotshwa, argued for bail due to the personal and financial hardships their incarceration has caused. Gwabeni claimed his absence had left his family struggling, with school fees unpaid and therapy required for his wife and child due to the trauma of his arrest.

Ndimande, meanwhile, highlighted financial losses from his non-operational minibus taxi and poultry farm, which he said generated R20,000 and R70,000 monthly, respectively. However, the state questioned the validity of these claims, particularly the lack of repairs to the taxi.

Hlatshwayo, dissatisfied with the explanations provided, adjourned proceedings, confirming that the decision will be announced on 15 January.