In a surprising public statement, Lieutenant General Sibiya has claimed full responsibility for the arrests made in the murder case of rapper Kiernan “AKA” Forbes, directly contradicting the narrative presented by KwaZulu-Natal Police Commissioner Lieutenant General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi.
Sibiya, speaking emphatically, said, “I’m the one who pushed for the arrest of AKA’s killers. He [Mkhwanazi] didn’t want to arrest—I’m the one who made it happen.” His remarks suggest tension within the South African Police Service (SAPS) leadership over the high-profile investigation.
This contradicts Mkhwanazi’s previous statements, where he remained cautious, only hinting at a developing case. “You know me—I don’t discuss details before court,”* Mkhwanazi had said. “But a clear picture is forming, and what’s coming will be very interesting—beyond just those already arrested.”
Sibiya, however, insisted on his pivotal role, stating, “I can prove my involvement. I met with the investigation team six times, worked with prosecutors, and engaged the national commissioner when Mkhwanazi was absent. We pushed for the arrests—and they happened.”
The differing accounts have sparked questions about coordination within SAPS, particularly in a case that has gripped the nation since AKA was shot dead in Durban in February 2023. While the arrests were initially seen as a breakthrough, Sibiya’s claims now cast doubt on who truly drove the investigation forward.
Observers suggest this could point to deeper divisions in police leadership, with Sibiya’s bold assertions challenging Mkhwanazi’s quieter, more methodical approach. As the case progresses, the public awaits further clarity—not just on who killed AKA, but also on how South Africa’s law enforcement handles such critical investigations behind the scenes.
With the trial still pending, the focus remains on ensuring justice for AKA, even as the police’s internal dynamics come under scrutiny.
