South Africa on alert after seventh woman’s body found near capital

A woman's body was discovered on Tuesday in the same area east of Johannesburg, South Africa, where several other victims were found in the past two months, raising concerns that a serial killer may be at large. The South African Police Services (SAPS) have issued a public warning for women to exercise caution while engaging in activities such as jogging in the vicinity.

The police spokesperson, Athlenda Mathe, stated that while the cases are under investigation and the deaths have not been definitively linked to a serial killer, the similarities are concerning enough to warrant a public warning and intensified investigations.

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has directed police authorities to prioritize these murder investigations, emphasizing that no stone will be left unturned in bringing those responsible to justice. He expressed his commitment to working with citizens to gather any information that may help end these attacks on women.

The police alert was issued following the discovery of a body in the Kwa-Thema area, approximately 34 kilometers (21 miles) from Kempton Park, on Tuesday. The victim was found fully naked and in an advanced stage of decomposition. On Monday, another body was discovered in Olifantsontein. On Saturday, the body of Elizabeth "Tsontso" Moselakgomo, a 38-year-old woman who had gone missing while jogging last week, was found after a frantic community and police search.