Three questioned in investigation into deaths of nine women in Ekurhuleni

Three persons of interest have been questioned regarding the deaths of nine women in Ekurhuleni, as authorities continue their high-level investigation. Acting Police Minister Firoz Cachalia provided an update after an urgent meeting of the Inter-Ministerial Committee (IMC) on Gender-Based Violence and Femicide (GBVF), stating that investigators have made progress but have not yet determined if the cases are linked.

The nine bodies were found in various locations, including Kempton Park, Rhodesfield, KwaThema, and Dawn Park over the past two months. Eight victims have been positively identified, with seven families notified, although one family has not yet been informed due to a lack of an address. Cachalia clarified that there is no conclusive evidence of a serial killer, as the cases lack a consistent modus operandi and motive.

Lieutenant-General Dumisani Khumalo and Lieutenant-General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi have been called upon to assist with the Ekurhuleni murder investigations. The police have increased their presence in affected communities to provide reassurance to residents. Minister Sindisiwe Chikunga announced an emergency strategy to enhance law-enforcement visibility and environmental interventions in affected areas.

The City of Ekurhuleni plans to intensify grass cutting, remove illegal dumping, and improve lighting and security systems in public spaces. International organizations, including the United Nations and Amnesty International, have expressed deep concern over the killings, calling for a prompt and thorough investigation and accountability for the perpetrators.