Police in South Africa have confirmed the discovery of a ninth woman’s body in two months east of Johannesburg, sparking fears over a string of unexplained deaths.
The latest victim, believed to be in her 30s, was found half-naked and wrapped in a sheet in Dawn Park on Thursday morning, with bruises and stab wounds, police said. Her identity has not been released.
The body brings to nine the number of women found since July across Ekurhuleni. Several were partially clothed and injured, but police say they have not established a link or confirmed a serial killer.
President Cyril Ramaphosa said “no stone will be left unturned” in finding those responsible, as the killings are “causing fear and uncertainty in our communities”.
Among the victims are 38-year-old Elizabeth Tsontso Moselakgomo, found behind a hotel in Kempton Park days after leaving home for a run; Itumeleng Kekana, missing since July; and 38-year-old Dineo Evelyn Motapane, found in KwaThema on Tuesday.
The first body was found in Kempton Park on July 15, with one suspect arrested and still in custody, though not linked to the other cases. Other bodies were found in August and September in Olifantsfontein, Clayville and KwaThema.
Police have set up a multidisciplinary team of detectives, intelligence and forensic experts and are pursuing a person of interest.
“Let’s not get emotional, the gloves are off,” said Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi. Acting Police Minister Firoz Cachalia cautioned that the cases appear to be “quite distinct, separate events”.
Police described the rise in violent crimes against women as a “matter of grave concern” and offered a 400,000 rand ($24,000) reward for information, urging women to avoid isolated routes and remain vigilant.
South Africa has one of the world’s highest rates of gender-based violence, with women killed at five times the global average, according to UN Women.
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