South African police investigate ninth woman’s death amid fears of linked killings

Police in South Africa are investigating the deaths of nine women whose bodies were found across Ekurhuleni over two months. Authorities caution that the cases may be separate, while a multidisciplinary team examines possible links and residents report growing fear.

South African police have confirmed that a ninth woman’s body was found in two months in Ekurhuleni, east of Johannesburg, prompting renewed concern over unexplained deaths in the area.

The latest victim was found half-naked and wrapped in a sheet beside a road in Dawn Park on Thursday morning. Police said her identity had not been released. Local media reported that the woman, believed to be in her 30s, appeared to have bruises and stab wounds.

The discovery follows the deaths of eight other women whose bodies were found across Ekurhuleni since July, including in Kempton Park, Olifantsfontein, Clayville and KwaThema. Several victims were found partially clothed or with injuries. Two have been identified as Itumeleng Kekana and 38-year-old Dineo Evelyn Motapane. Elizabeth “Tsontso” Moselakgomo, also 38, disappeared after leaving home for an afternoon run; her body was later found behind a hotel in Kempton Park.

Police have stressed that they have not established whether the deaths are connected or whether a serial killer is responsible. Acting Police Minister Firoz Cachalia described the cases as appearing, at this stage, to be “quite distinct, separate events”. Police are nevertheless investigating whether a group could be involved and are pursuing an undisclosed person of interest.

A multidisciplinary team of detectives, intelligence officers, forensic experts and other specialists has been assembled to examine the cases. A suspect arrested in connection with the first death, discovered on 15 July, remains in custody, but police have not linked that person to the other killings.

The deaths have caused alarm among local residents. Bongeka Sebela told the BBC that women were afraid to leave their homes or walk to shops. Police have urged women to avoid isolated routes, stay alert to strangers and suspicious vehicles, and share travel plans with trusted people. Authorities have offered a 400,000-rand reward for information leading to arrests and appealed for help identifying victims. President Cyril Ramaphosa said “no stone will be left unturned” in the investigation.