South African flyweight boxing contender Luthando “Local is lekker” Lekevana murdered outside his home in Joe Slovo Park.
Staff Reporter
Former South African flyweight boxing contender Luthando “Local is lekker” Lekevana, 46, was fatally shot at his home in Sikhova Street in Joe Slovo Park, Milnerton on Sunday 19 February.
Lekevana, a professional boxer, rose to prominence in 2006 when he fought a national flyweight bout against Akhona Aliva.
Milnerton police spokesperson Captain Nopaya Madyibi said Lekevana had been fatally shot, with police attending to a “complaint of murder” in Joe Slovo at about 7.15pm. Madyibi said Lekevane’s body was found in front of his house.
Boxing promoter David Faas said Lekevana challenged South African flyweight champion Akhona Aliva in East London in 2006, but lost and retired from fighting thereafter.
But Faas said Lekevana carried on imparting his boxing skills to young people in Joe Slovo Park.
“He was still very active in honing the skill of local boxers. He was busy honing the skills of boxer Yamkela Plaatjie who is regarded by many boxing experts as a superstar of the future,” said Faas.
He said Spamabdla Maliti was also one of his boxing prospects.
“We have lost a legend, a hard worker who was prepared to take Joe Slovo boxing onto the map of South African boxing.”
Madyibi stated the motive behind Lekevana killing is unknown.
She said Milnerton police have opened a murder docker for investigation.
“No arrest has been made, the investigation continues.”
Faas says Lekevana, who is survived by his wife and two children, will be laid to rest in his hometown in East London on 4 March. A memorial service will be held on Wednesday 1 March.