Four suspects linked to the murder of former boxing champion Zolani ‘Last Born’ Tete have appeared in the Mdantsane Magistrate’s Court in the Eastern Cape as the case continues.
Also see: Slain boxing champion Zolani Tete continues to receive tributes
While one of the accused appeared in court for the second time, the other suspects made their first appearance in connection with Zolani’s murder. The case has drawn significant attention following the death of the two-time world champion, whose murder sent shockwaves through South Africa’s boxing community.
2 Suspects to remain in custody
The 22-year-old suspect, Uzuzole Goqwana, and Accused 4, Sinebhongo Qase, will remain in custody until their formal bail application on 1 September 2026, according to SABC News.
Uzuzole’s legal team has argued that he should be granted bail because of the seriousness of his medical condition. His lawyers have alternatively asked that he be transferred to a hospital facility capable of providing the medical care he requires.
The State has opposed the request, arguing that correctional facilities have the necessary capacity to accommodate his medical needs.
The dispute over his medical condition and where he should receive treatment is expected to form part of the proceedings when the formal bail application is heard next month.
Three more suspects appeared in court today in the Zolani Tete murder case… Accused 2 and 3 did not apply for bail. Accused number 4 (brown jacket) is applying for bail. The case has been postponed to 13 October….@TheVoiceLounge is still reporting inside court… pic.twitter.com/XJbowTZrgQ
— Member (@ThabisoMosia) August 25, 2026
Also see: Zolani Tete murder: 3 more suspects taken into custody
2 Suspects abandon bail applications
Meanwhile, two other suspects linked to Zolani’s murder have abandoned their applications for bail. They will remain in custody as the investigation and legal proceedings continue.
The two accused are expected to return to the Mdantsane Magistrate’s Court on 13 October 2026. The decision to abandon their bail applications means they will remain behind bars while the murder case progresses through the courts.
Zolani’s death shocked boxing community
Zolani’s death was met with an outpouring of grief from the South African boxing fraternity and fans around the country.
The Mdantsane-born boxer enjoyed an illustrious career and became a two-time world champion. He held the IBF bantamweight title before later becoming a WBO bantamweight champion.
Zolani was also regarded as an influential figure among younger boxers, with several fighters speaking about his contribution to the sport and the inspiration he provided.
His death has particularly affected the Eastern Cape boxing community, where he was widely respected.
The murder case remains before the courts, and the accused are presumed innocent until proven guilty.
The next significant development will be the 1 September bail application involving Uzuzole and Sinebhongo, while the other two suspects are expected back in court in October.
Also see: Sivenathi Nontshinga walks away unscathed after car accident
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