The long-running case surrounding the murder of South African rapper Kiernan “AKA” Forbes has entered its next critical phase. Siyabonga and Malusi Ndimande, the two brothers accused of coordinating the hit, have been successfully extradited from Eswatini (Swaziland) to South Africa.

The brothers landed at King Shaka International Airport in Durban on Tuesday under heavy police guard. Their arrival follows months of legal battles. The pair had initially fought the extradition request after their arrest in the neighboring kingdom earlier this year. They abandoned their appeal in October, clearing the way for their return.

AKA’s assassination cut short a career that defined South African hip-hop for over a decade. He was fatally shot in February 2023 outside a restaurant in Durban. The shooting also claimed the life of his friend, entrepreneur Tebello “Tibz” Motsoane. The incident was captured on security footage. Although the rapper was a controversial figure, his death shocked the nation and the African music scene. His murder silenced one of South African hip-hop’s most dominant and polarizing voices. Known as “Supa Mega,” he was a figure of immense confidence and ambition. He created a sound that led to massive, continent-spanning hits like “All Eyes on Me” and the diamond-certified “Fela in Versace.” His final album, Mass Country, was released posthumously, cementing a legacy as an artist who consistently forced South African rap to think bigger.

The Ndimande brothers are set to appear in the Durban Magistrate’s Court. They face a string of charges, including murder, conspiracy to commit murder, and unlawful possession of firearms. Authorities have stated they have a “water-tight case.” Police also suspect the brothers are linked to a wider criminal network and other murder cases.

Their extradition brings the total number of suspects in custody for the double murder to seven. The trial is expected to be one of the most high-profile cases in recent South African history. AKA’s father, Tony Forbes, has expressed relief, stating he is pleased that all key suspects may now stand trial together.