Former South African boxing champion Tete killed in shooting outside his home

South Africa’s former boxing champion, known as Tete, was shot dead outside his residence in the Johannesburg suburb of Sandton on Tuesday evening, police said. The 48‑year‑old athlete, whose full name is Thabo “Tete” Mthembu, was a two‑time national lightweight champion and represented the country at several international tournaments before retiring in 2015. Authorities arrived at the scene shortly after 20:00 local time and found Mthembu with multiple gunshot wounds; he was pronounced dead at the scene. The incident is being treated as a homicide, and detectives have cordoned off the area while canvassing for witnesses.

The South African Police Service (SAPS) confirmed that an investigation is underway, but no arrests have been made and no motive has been disclosed. Neighbors reported hearing several gunshots and seeing an unidentified vehicle fleeing the vicinity. SAPS spokesperson Captain Lindiwe Nkosi urged anyone with information to contact the Crime Stop hotline. The death of a high‑profile sports figure has prompted statements of condolence from the national boxing federation and former teammates, while authorities continue to gather evidence to identify the perpetrators.