South Africa Police Probe Possible Serial Killings After 7 Women Found Dead

South African police are investigating the killings of at least seven women whose bodies have been discovered in the Ekurhuleni municipality, east of Johannesburg, over the past two months.

The discovery of the partially naked and battered bodies has sparked renewed concern and fears that a serial killer or group of killers may be operating in the area.

Police said five bodies were recovered within one week, prompting an intensified investigation.

“We are still investigating whether we are dealing with one perpetrator or a group of men that are behind the murders of these women,” police spokeswoman Athlenda Mathe said, describing the discoveries as “concerning.”

The first victim, a 37-year-old woman, was found naked and bound with cable ties on July 15. A suspect was arrested two days later.

A second victim, aged 32, was found partially clothed on August 24, while a third woman was discovered naked and in an advanced state of decomposition on September 10.

The fourth identified victim, 38-year-old Elizabeth Moselakgomo, had left her eight-year-old daughter at home to go jogging but never returned. Her body was found behind a hotel on September 12, according to police.

Moselakgomo’s disappearance gained public attention after fellow runners launched a social media campaign to help locate her, which subsequently contributed to the discovery of more bodies.

President Cyril Ramaphosa on Tuesday vowed that “no stone will be left unturned” in efforts to solve the killings, saying the incidents were causing “fear and uncertainty” in communities, particularly among women.

Acting Police Minister Firoz Cachalia also described the discovery of the bodies as “deeply disturbing.”

Amnesty International South Africa said the killings were another “horrific reminder” that women in the country were not safe.

Gender-based violence remains widespread in South Africa, with the United Nations reporting that one in three women experiences physical or sexual violence during her lifetime.

The country, which has a population of about 62 million, records some of the highest rates of violence against women and children globally, according to UN Women.

South Africa also has one of the world’s highest homicide rates, with at least 60 people reportedly killed each day. Many of the killings are linked to turf wars involving gangs engaged in drug trafficking and illegal mining.