South African police are investigating the discovery of a ninth woman’s body in Ekurhuleni, east of Johannesburg. Officers found the body early Thursday, adding to a series of cases that have raised fears of linked killings.
All nine bodies were discovered across the Ekurhuleni municipality during the past two months. Police previously warned that similarities between the first eight cases were serious enough to prompt a public alert. However, investigators have not confirmed that the deaths were committed by the same person or group.
The latest discovery has increased concerns about violent crime and femicide in South Africa. Police said the new case would be added to their wider investigation into the deaths of women in the area.
Police Examine Possible Links
Gauteng provincial police commissioner Fred Kekana said a passerby discovered the latest body near a construction site. The person then alerted the police.
The woman had not been identified. Kekana said she appeared to be around 30 years old. Police observed what appeared to be a stab wound to her side, while her throat also appeared to have been cut.
Forensic investigators had not yet established the official cause of death. Police also said there was no confirmation that the latest case was connected to the previous eight deaths.
Kekana appealed to residents to provide any information that could assist investigators. He also urged people to avoid sharing photographs of the bodies or unverified claims online.
According to police, false reports and graphic material on social media could increase public fear. Officials also warned that such material could potentially encourage copycat crimes.
Cases Reported Across Ekurhuleni
A multidisciplinary team has been assigned to investigate the deaths and identify those responsible.
The bodies have been discovered in several communities across Ekurhuleni. These include Kempton Park, Pomona, Clayville, Olifantsfontein, Rhodesfield, KwaThema and Dawn Park.
Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi said investigators were following several leads. He said police were making progress in two or three cases but did not provide further details.
Lesufi also asked residents to give investigators enough time to collect evidence. He said authorities would continue working to establish what happened to the victims.
Families Urged to Report Missing People
The discoveries have also renewed calls for families to report missing relatives without delay.
Missing In Southern Africa, an organization that supports missing people and their families, said the cases had increased the distress of families searching for loved ones.
The group stressed that people do not need to wait before reporting someone missing. It urged anyone who suspects that a person has disappeared to contact the South African Police Service immediately.
Police continue to investigate all nine deaths. At this stage, authorities have not confirmed whether the cases are connected or whether they were carried out by one offender or multiple offenders.
