The murder of former two-weight world boxing champion Zolani “Last Born” Tete has taken another dramatic turn, with the man alleged to have masterminded the killing reportedly confessing to his role in planning the assassination.
Uzuzole Goqwana, 22, is accused of arranging the hit that ended Tete’s life outside his Mdantsane home on 21 August 2026. The state alleges that Goqwana recruited Sinebhongo Qase as a middleman, who in turn allegedly helped secure two hitmen – Siphesihle Kolisa and Athandwa Gangala.
Reports emerging from the case say Goqwana made admissions about his involvement and that the alleged hitmen were paid a combined R60,000 to carry out the killing.
The alleged confession
According to the latest reports, Goqwana’s account forms part of evidence being considered by investigators as they piece together how the alleged contract killing was organised.
The reported confession comes against the backdrop of claims that the killing was not spontaneous, but carefully planned, with the alleged mastermind using a middleman to arrange the shooters.
The state alleges that Qase played a key role in connecting Goqwana to the alleged hitmen, while investigators believe another suspect, believed to be the getaway driver, remains at large.
Police have also told the court that Qase made admissions and gave a confession, strengthening the state’s case against the accused.
Tete was ambushed at his home
The former champion was reportedly driving into his home in NU17, Mdantsane, at about 6.30pm when the alleged gunmen attacked.
Detective Warrant Officer Nkululeko Mthathi told the Mdantsane Magistrates’ Court that the alleged hitmen had returned to the area earlier that afternoon and later hid for about 30 minutes while waiting for Tete to arrive.
The detective alleged that the attackers opened fire after Tete arrived, killing him at the scene. Tete’s 27-year-old girlfriend, who was in the passenger seat, was also shot and seriously wounded.
The court heard that children were also present during the shooting, with one eight-year-old child reportedly hiding behind a vehicle seat as the gunfire erupted.
A case of alleged revenge?
The motive remains a major question in the case.
Goqwana has reportedly made a separate claim accusing Tete of having previously shot and paralysed him. Reports also allege that Goqwana had been romantically involved with Tete’s estranged wife. Those claims have emerged as part of the defence narrative and have not been established as fact in court.
The alleged mastermind is himself wheelchair-bound after being injured in a previous shooting.
Tete’s manager, Mlandeli “TaMla” Tengimfene, previously told the Daily Dispatch that threats against the boxer had existed for some time.
“I knew it was coming. We have been aware of plans to assassinate him a long time ago,” Tengimfene said, adding that police and Tete’s family had allegedly been informed about the threats.
State fights bail
Goqwana and Qase are facing serious charges including murder, attempted murder, conspiracy to commit murder and unlawful possession of firearms and ammunition.
The state is opposing bail under Schedule 6 of the Criminal Procedure Act, arguing that Goqwana is a danger to the community and that his release could interfere with witnesses or compromise the investigation.
Detective Mthathi told the court that Goqwana allegedly knows several witnesses personally and that there were concerns about possible witness interference. Police also believe the accused could potentially flee the country.
The investigation is continuing, with police still searching for the alleged getaway driver.
All allegations against Goqwana and his co-accused remain before the court and have yet to be tested at trial.
