South African rapper Kiernan Forbes, known as AKA, has died after being shot outside a restaurant in the south-eastern city of Durban, his family says.
Key points:
- He and another man were allegedly approached by two armed suspects and shot at close range
- The 35-year-old won multiple South African awards
- The motive for the shooting is being investigated by police
The 35-year-old won multiple South African awards, was nominated several times for a Black Entertainment Television award in the United States and was once nominated for an MTV Europe Music Award.
“It is with extreme sadness that we acknowledge the passing of our beloved son,” his parents Tony and Lynn Forbes said.
“Our son was loved, and he gave love in return.”
The South African government paid tribute to Forbes on Twitter expressing their deepest condolences.
He released his latest song Prada on January 20, featuring fellow South African rapper Khuli Chana.
He recorded six albums across his career the latest of which was You’re Welcome in 2021.
He was reportedly gunned down on Friday night alongside another man while they were walking towards their car from a restaurant.
“They were allegedly approached by two armed suspects who walked to them from across the street and shot the victims at close range,” police said in a statement.
The motive of the shooting is unknown, and police are investigating.
AFP
