Sixth woman found dead in KwaThema as Ramaphosa vows ‘no stone unturned’ in East Rand killings

A sixth woman's decomposed body was discovered in KwaThema, Springs, deepening fears over a series of killings in the East Rand region since July. National police spokesperson Brigadier Athlenda Mathe confirmed the discovery and appealed for public cooperation in the ongoing investigation. President Cyril Ramaphosa pledged his government would not rest until those responsible were found, emphasizing that the government would prioritize these cases.

Multiple theories are being explored, but detectives have not yet identified a single perpetrator. A multidisciplinary team has been assembled to analyze evidence from each scene. Police are working with private security companies and have made over 18,000 arrests, seizing 148 unlicensed firearms linked to gender-based violence and femicide cases.

Mathe urged men to stand up against the violence, emphasizing that every day there is a dead body. Deputy National Commissioner for Policing, Lieutenant General Tebello Mosikili, echoed that sentiment, stating that if those responsible for the killings are not stopped, their freedom will be temporary. Police are collaborating with the public and private security firms, implementing an 'eyes and ears' initiative, and increasing patrols to address the alarming situation.