Gauteng police intensify investigation after eight women's bodies discovered

Police in Gauteng have intensified their investigation into the possible connection between eight women's deaths, with specialised units and additional resources being deployed. Acting Police Minister Firoz Cachalia confirmed the discovery of an eighth body on Tuesday night. The decomposed remains, believed to be a woman in her 30s, were found in Ekurhuleni.

Meanwhile, another woman's body, believed to be in her late 20s, was found in a river near Mall of Thembisa on September 7. Police are examining the circumstances of her death and whether her body was placed there. Acting Gauteng Provincial Commissioner Major-General Fred Kekana stated that the seventh body would be included in the investigation.

While some of the victims had bruises and were partially clothed, police have not yet confirmed the connection between the deaths. National police spokesperson Brigadier Athlenda Mathe revealed that investigators are investigating several possibilities, including a single perpetrator, a group of men, or potential copycat killings.

The SAPS cyber unit will assist, and Lieutenant-General Dumisani Khumalo has been tasked with supporting the Gauteng team. President Cyril Ramaphosa has directed the police to prioritise the cases and ensure no stone is left unturned. The public has been urged to refrain from circulating unverified information while detectives work to establish the circumstances surrounding the deaths.