Popular South African rapper, A.K.A whose real name is Kiernan Jarryd Forbes was on Friday reportedly shot dead in a drive-by shooting on Florida Road.
His death was confirmed by the South African police department who noted that which took place in Durban’s Florida Rd.
According to an eyewitness, A.K.A was shot five times at 8pm and was the only individual targeted in the incident. The situation is still developing, and the South African police department is actively investigating the shooting.
The news of A.K.A’s shooting highlights the ongoing issue of violence and gun-related incidents in South Africa.
According to the police, the shooting happened at around 10pm on Florida Road, which is regarded as an entertainment street in Durban. The road came to a standstill as it was closed off, following the shooting.
KwaZulu-Natal police spokesperson Robert Netshiunda said: ‘A well-known 35-year-old musician and his bodyguard who is said to be 34 years old was shot and killed in Morningside, Florida Road, on Friday night. What we have for now is that the musician and his security details were having supper at the restaurant and as they were leaving to their vehicle, two unknown gunmen opened fire on them.’
A.K.A was a highly influential figure in the South African music industry, and his music has received widespread recognition and acclaim.
Africa Today News, New York reports that AKA’s bodyguard, was also wounded, while another unknown person, who is understood to be a close friend of the singer, was also killed.
Born and raised in Cape Town, the singer gained significance after releasing his single ‘Victory Lap’ which was released from his debut studio album, Altar Ego (2011).
He gained recognition in Nigeria after releasing hit single titled “Fela in Versace”. The rapper has also worked with Grammy award-winning Nigerian artiste, Burna Boy.
AKA had sparked controversy after he supported xenophobic attacks on Nigerians based in South Africa.
Based on the comment, Burna Boy severed ties with the rapper and vowed never to visit South Africa again.