By Godwin Green
Director, News and Strategy, PR Times Africa
EASTERN CAPE, South Africa — South African police have arrested four suspects in connection with the killing of former two-time world boxing champion Zolani “Last Born” Tete, as investigators intensify efforts to establish the circumstances behind his death.
Tete, 38, was shot dead on Friday, August 21, in Mdantsane, Eastern Cape, after armed men allegedly ambushed him while he was inside his vehicle waiting for the gate of his residence to open.
A 27-year-old woman who was travelling with the former champion was also shot and remains in hospital.
South African Police Service confirmed that four suspects are now in custody. The suspects were arrested during operations in KuGompo City, Mdantsane and Scenery Park.
One of the suspects, aged 22, has been formally charged with murder and attempted murder and appeared before the Mdantsane Magistrate’s Court on Monday. The other suspects are expected to face court proceedings as the investigation continues.
Police have not disclosed a possible motive for the killing.
Tete was one of South Africa’s most accomplished boxers. He won the IBF junior-bantamweight world title in 2014 before capturing the WBO bantamweight world championship in 2017.
He also made boxing history in 2017 when he knocked out fellow South African SibonisoGonya in just 11 seconds, one of the fastest knockouts in a world championship fight.
His death has sent shockwaves through South Africa’s sporting community, with tributes pouring in for the former champion.
South African authorities have urged the investigation to be allowed to take its course as prosecutors prepare to pursue the case against those arrested.
The motive behind the killing and the identities of those allegedly responsible for carrying out the shooting remain central to the ongoing investigation.
PR Times Africa will continue to monitor developments in the case.
Source: South African Police Service / Associated Press / Reuters
