Ninth woman’s body found as South Africa probes series of killings

Police in South Africa have discovered the ninth unexplained woman's body in just two months, raising concerns over a series of suspicious deaths in the region east of Johannesburg. The latest victim, whose identity remains undisclosed, was found half-naked and wrapped in a sheet on the side of a road in Dawn Park, East of Johannesburg.

A similar pattern has been observed with the previous eight victims, who were found between July and September across Ekurhuleni, a major urban area surrounding Johannesburg. Some of the victims were partially clothed and sustained injuries but police have not confirmed if all deaths are connected or if a serial killer is responsible.

President Cyril Ramaphosa has vowed to investigate thoroughly, promising "no stone will be left unturned" in finding those behind the killings. Among the victims was 38-year-old Elizabeth "Tsontso" Moselakgomo, whose body was found three days after she disappeared while running an afternoon errand. Two other victims identified were Itumeleng Kekana and Dineo Evelyn Motapane, both of whom had been missing since July.

The initial discovery took place in Kempton Park on July 15, and a suspect was arrested two days later but has not been linked to the other deaths. The latest body discovered is of a woman in her 30s, found with bruises and stab wounds. The discovery has caused fear among residents, especially women who have expressed feeling unsafe.

Local police have assembled a multidisciplinary team of detectives, intelligence officers, and forensic experts to investigate the deaths and explore potential links between the cases. The Gauteng Premier, Panyaza Lesufi, urged authorities to take decisive action. In response to the rising incidents of violence against women, police have advised women to be cautious when walking alone or using isolated routes, remain vigilant against strangers and suspicious vehicles, and share their location with someone they trust.

A reward of 400,000 rand ($24,000; £18,000) has been offered for information leading to arrests. Authorities have not yet concluded whether the deaths are linked to a serial killer and are investigating the possibility of a group responsible. South Africa grapples with one of the highest rates of gender-based violence in the world, with women experiencing killing rates five times higher than the global average.