Activists demand police action after 12th woman killed

Activists from various organizations marched to the Kempton Park police station on Monday following the 12th woman's murder in Ekurhuleni. They demanded urgent police action to combat femicide and presented a memorandum to the authorities. The group sought a public report on the status of investigations into numerous women's murders since July, a well-funded and equipped women-led gender-based violence task team, and a 24-hour victim support room at Kempton Park police station.

Nomzamo Zondo, SERI director, attributed the high prevalence of violence to inadequate policing in townships and informal settlements, as well as the living conditions. Zondo vowed to hold accountable government officials who had previously promised improvements in lighting, services, and policing. Soweto resident Cibi Sonkosi joined the march due to her fear for her life, stating she now locks herself up by 7 PM to avoid potential harm.

Tembisa resident Simon Mngwarwane-Dube expressed frustration over limited visible policing, despite previous promises of increased action. Gun violence in his area is so rampant that gunshots are informally called the national anthem. Two weeks ago, Ekurhuleni mayor Nkosindiphile Xhakaza had promised increased surveillance, grass cutting, and streetlight improvements.

The South African Police Service (SAPS) stated that its head office had augmented the Kempton Park police station's capacity with additional officers, encouraging the public to report criminal activities anonymously to Crime Stop.