Ninth woman's body found in South Africa as murder probe intensifies

South African police discovered the body of a ninth woman near a construction site in Ekurhuleni, east of Johannesburg, on September 17, 2026. The victim, estimated to be around 30 years old, was found with stab wounds, a cut throat, and signs of violence. Authorities have not officially confirmed the cause of death. This discovery follows eight other bodies found in the same municipality over approximately two months, beginning with the first discovery on July 17. Police have not confirmed whether the deaths are linked to a single perpetrator, though they are investigating the possibility of a serial killer, multiple suspects, or separate perpetrators.

Investigators have identified several similarities across the cases that warrant concern: all victims were women in their 20s or 30s, most were found naked or partially clothed, and many showed signs of violence including bruising and other injuries. One identified victim, 38-year-old Elizabeth Tsontso Moselakgomo, disappeared while jogging near Kempton Park; her body was discovered several days later after her young daughter raised an alarm about her absence. Another body was found in an advanced stage of decomposition. The first body, discovered on July 17, was found naked and restrained with cable ties; a person believed to be the victim's boyfriend was arrested but no charges have been filed.

In response to the killings, South African authorities have taken multiple steps. President Cyril Ramaphosa directed police to prioritize the investigations and vowed "no stone will be left unturned" in bringing those responsible to justice. Police Commissioner Fred Kekana stated that "investigators are considering all possibilities, including the possibility of multiple suspects or separate perpetrators." Acting Police Minister Firoz Cachalia described the discoveries as "deeply disturbing" and noted that a multidisciplinary investigation has been established. A lockdown was imposed in Kempton Park, roadblocks were set up, and police issued a public warning advising women to avoid walking or running alone, particularly in isolated areas. Authorities offered a reward of 400,000 South African rand (approximately $25,000) for information leading to arrests.

Deputy Police Chief Tebello Mosikili told journalists at the scene: "We cannot continue picking up bodies." The killings have intensified public anxiety and highlighted long-standing concerns about gender-based violence in South Africa. The country has one of the world's highest femicide rates, with the United Nations noting that rates are five times higher than the global average. In 2024, a study revealed that three women were killed every day by intimate partners during 2020–2021. South Africa recorded 9,782 reported rapes and 12,590 sexual offences between January and March 2026. In November 2025, the government declared gender-based violence and femicide a national disaster.

The Commission for Gender Equality and civil society organizations have called for urgent preventive action, including safety audits of affected areas involving police, municipal officials, transport authorities, and community structures. The audits should assess lighting, surveillance, pedestrian and public transport routes, police visibility, and access to emergency assistance. Commission spokesperson Javu Baloyi stated: "Women should not have to be killed before an area receives heightened attention." Gauteng Province Premier Panyaza Lesufi said on Thursday that "someone has declared war against us, and we will push back, we are not going to surrender."