By Lehlohonolo Lehana.
The case against two suspects linked to the murders of rapper Kiernan “AKA” Forbes and Tebello “Tibz” Motsoane has been postponed to 9 April.
Brothers Siyabonga and Malusi Ndimande appeared in the Manzini Magistrate’s Court in eSwatini on Wednesday morning.
The duo was arrested in the capital, Mbabane, last month.
They are facing charges of murder, attempted murder, and conspiracy to commit murder.
During their brief appearance, prosecutor Macebo Nxumalo confirmed that they have received the official extradition application from their South African counterparts.
Nxumalo said the application was also handed over to the defence team on the same day. Nxumalo said they are ready to proceed with the application.
“Your lordship if you look into the analysis of the process, it is clear that Eswatini is taking this matter very seriously. And we give it the urgency it deserves your lordship. As I stand here, I am ready to argue the matter your lordship.”
But the defence requested to be granted more time to go through the application and properly consult with the accused. The legal representative of the Ndimande brothers, Sivesonke Ngwenya, told the court that they are also planning to beef up the defence team.
Magistrate David Khumalo said the postponement would allow the defence team to study South Africa’s extradition request.
“Once that has been done, and after your consultation with senior councils, a decision shall be taken by your legal team whether the (extradition) application will be contested or not.
“If the application is contested, the court is going to give timelines on when to file papers, such as answering affidavits and replying affidavits.
“It has been agreed already that the 9th of April 2024 will be our return date.”
Five other suspects in the matter appeared in the Durban Magistrates Court on Tuesday to apply for bail.
The accused are facing 10 charges including conspiracy to commit murder, two counts of murder, attempted murder, unlawful possession of a firearm and ammunition.
Their bail hearing will continue when the matter returns to court on 27 March.
Forbes and Motsoane were gunned down outside the now-defunct Wish on Florida restaurant in Durban, on 10 February 2023.