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Gunned down in cold blood: Three suspects arrested over boxing legend Zolani Tete’s murder

By Mapaballo Borotho

Gunned down in cold blood: Three suspects arrested over boxing legend Zolani Tete’s murder
Image @WBO
  • Three suspects have been arrested in connection with the fatal shooting of South African boxing legend Zolani “Last Born” Tete in Mdantsane.
  • One suspect faces murder and attempted murder charges, while two others are facing charges of unlawful possession of firearms and ammunition.
  • A fourth man who was initially apprehended has since been released and remains a potential witness.

Three suspects are set to appear before Eastern Cape courts for their alleged involvement in the brutal murder of South African boxing legend Zolani “Last Born” Tete.

Tete was shot and killed outside his home in Mdantsane, Eastern Cape, on Friday evening – a death that sent shockwaves across the boxing fraternity.

The 38-year-old was in a car with a 27-year-old woman when he was attacked. The woman sustained injuries and remains hospitalised.

The motive behind the fatal shooting remains under police investigation.

“The 22-year-old suspect arrested on Saturday, 22 August, has been formally charged with murder and attempted murder. He is appearing before the Mdantsane Magistrate’s Court today,” said Eastern Cape police in a media statement on Monday, 24 August 2026.

Meanwhile, two suspects arrested in Scenery Park on Sunday, 23 August, are expected to appear before the KuGompo Magistrate’s Court on charges of unlawful possession of firearms and ammunition.

The two suspects, aged 27 and 28, are also expected to appear in the main case before the Mdantsane Magistrate’s Court on Tuesday, 25 August 2026.

The attempted murder charge relates to the 27-year-old female passenger who was wounded in the attack and remains hospitalised.

Police say a 30-year-old man who was initially apprehended on Saturday has since been released and remains a potential witness.

“We caution the public and the media against speculation or the dissemination of unverified information, as this may compromise the investigation and the integrity of the court proceedings. Further updates will be provided as the investigation progresses,” the statement read.

Tete last fought in July 2022, beating Briton Jason Cunningham by knockout In London, but it was later ruled a no-contest after he failed a drugs test.

He tested positive for anabolic steroid stanozolol and was given a ban by the UK Anti-Doping Agency.

After his death, manager Mla Tengimfene confirmed he had been training for a comeback fight after his ban ended.

Tete had 29 wins in 34 fights, with four losses and one no-contest.

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