Police investigate possible links between nine women’s deaths in South Africa
Bodies found across Ekurhuleni over roughly two months have prompted fear and anger, while police investigate multiple possible perpetrators.
Police in South Africa are investigating whether the apparent murders of nine women found across Ekurhuleni municipality over roughly two months are connected.
The latest body was found in Dawn Park on 17 September. Police said similarities included the women’s apparent ages, bruising and the fact that some bodies were found naked or partially clothed. Four victims have reportedly been identified, while five remain unidentified.
The bodies were found at several locations, including Kempton Park and areas between 25 and 35 kilometres away. Police have not established whether the deaths involve one perpetrator, multiple suspects or separate perpetrators, and have cautioned against drawing premature conclusions.
At least one suspect is in custody and has appeared in court, although it remains unclear whether that person is the same individual described by another police official as a person of interest. Police have offered a 400,000-rand reward for information leading to an arrest.
The discoveries have intensified fear and anger over gender-based violence in South Africa. President Cyril Ramaphosa has urged men to help prevent violence against women and girls, while police have advised women near Kempton Park to remain alert and avoid walking or running alone.
The National Shelter Movement of South Africa has argued that responsibility for preventing violence lies with perpetrators, society and the state, rather than with women’s safety choices. Al Jazeera reported that the investigation remains active as authorities examine the cases for possible links.
