Kempton Park killings: Women’s deaths fuel call for action from late-shift workers

Seven women have been found dead in Kempton Park and nearby areas since July, heightening concerns for late-shift workers in the hospitality industry. The Federation of Unions of South Africa (FEDUSA) and the National Union of Hotel, Restaurant, Catering, Commercial, Health and Allied Workers (NUHRCCHAW) are urging urgent safety measures for these vulnerable employees.

Workers travel home alone after their shifts, often facing dangerous journeys without adequate support. President Cyril Ramaphosa has called on police to prioritize these cases, while the SAPS is investigating various possibilities, including one perpetrator or a group of men. Police visibility and resources have increased in the affected areas, with the SAPS cyber unit and Crime Intelligence head Lieutenant-General Dumisani Khumalo assisting the Gauteng team.

NUHRCCHAW General Secretary Riefdah Ajam expressed deep concern for the safety of late-shift workers, particularly women, and called for transport assistance. Workers fear for their safety, especially when relying on e-hailing services, and some live too far from their workplaces to rely on such services. The Department of Employment and Labour has stated that workers' safety issues are not its primary responsibility, but employers must provide reasonably practicable measures to address identified risks.

Meanwhile, a tribute was held to honor Elizabeth "Tsontso" Moselakgomo, with participants emphasizing the need for safer communities and running routes for women.