Popular South African rapper Kiernan Forbes, better known as AKA has been shot death by unknown gunmen outside a restaurant in Durban, South Africa, on Friday night.

According to police the 35-year-old was shot dead in a drive-by shooting on Florida Road, another person believed to be AKA’s bodyguard, was also wounded, while another unidentified person, who is understood to be a close friend of AKA was also shot dead.

Confirming the incident, AKA’s family in a statement on Saturday morning appealed for compassion, space and time to congregate as family to decide on the upcoming days.

The statement read: “It is with extreme sadness that we acknowledge the passing of our beloved son, and confirm his untimely and tragic passing on the evening of February 10, 2023. We are awaiting further details from the Durban Police.

“To us, Kiernan Jarryd Forbes, was a son, brother, grandson, nephew, cousin and friend. Most importantly father to his beloved daughter, Kaire. To many he was AKA, SUPAMEGA, BHOVA and the many other names of affection his legion of fans called him by. Our son was loved and he gave love in return. In this time of grief we appeal for your compassion, space and time to congregate as family to decide on the upcoming days.

We thank you for the love and support we have received thus far and ask you continue to keep us in your prayers and uplifted in the Lord”.