Former world boxing champion Zolani “Last Born” Tete was tragically shot dead near his residence in South Africa’s Eastern Cape on Friday. The 38-year-old boxer was targeted by two assailants who emerged from a vehicle wearing balaclavas and opened fire, officials have confirmed.
Sports Minister Gayton McKenzie refrained from speculating on the motive, stating, “I will not speculate about who did this or why.” The incident underscores the persistent issue of violent crime in South Africa, a nation struggling with high murder rates despite recent downward trends. The community in Mdantsane, known for producing boxing champions, mourns deeply.
Tete, who gained international recognition with an 11-second knockout victory in 2017, was considered a local hero. South African police have launched an investigation into the shooting as details remain scant, particularly about the attackers’ motive. Alongside Tete, a 27-year-old woman in the entourage was also shot and is currently hospitalized.
(With inputs from agencies.)
Devdiscourse News Desk
www.devdiscourse.com