MDANTSANE – Four suspects are now in custody in connection with the murder of South African boxing legend Zolani “Lastborn” Tete, with three expected to appear in the Mdantsane Magistrate’s Court on Tuesday, 25 August.
According to SAPS spokesperson Brigadier Nobuntu Gantana, it was confirmed on Monday that a 22-year-old suspect, arrested on Saturday, 22 August, has been formally charged with murder and attempted murder following the fatal shooting of Tete in NU 17, Mdantsane, on 21 August.
The suspect was due to appear in the Mdantsane Magistrate’s Court on Monday, 24 August.
The attempted murder charge relates to a 27-year-old woman who was travelling as a passenger at the time of the attack. She was wounded and remains in hospital.
Gantana added that two further suspects were arrested in Scenery Park on Sunday, 23 August, and were expected to appear in the KuGompo Magistrate’s Court on charges of unlawful possession of firearms and ammunition.
All three suspects arrested on Sunday, aged 27, 27 and 28, are expected to appear in connection with the main case in the Mdantsane Magistrate’s Court on Tuesday, 25 August.
A 30-year-old man who was initially apprehended on Saturday has since been released and remains a potential witness, Gantana said.
Additionally, she cautioned the public and media against speculation and the circulation of unverified information, warning that this could compromise the investigation and the integrity of court proceedings.
Meanwhile, Boxing South Africa (BSA) has announced arrangements for memorial and funeral services for Tete, who was widely known by his nickname “Lastborn”.
A memorial service will be held at the Orient Theatre in KuGompo on Wednesday, 26 August, from 12:00 to 16:00.
The funeral is scheduled for Saturday, 29 August, in Mdantsane, although the venue is still to be confirmed.
BSA’s Chief Operations Officer Mandla Ntlanganiso said further details regarding the funeral venue and additional arrangements would be communicated once finalised.
The boxing body extended its condolences to Tete’s family, friends, supporters and the wider boxing fraternity.
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