Nine women found dead in Ekurhuleni; police probe possible serial killer link

South African police are investigating the deaths of nine women whose bodies have been discovered across Ekurhuleni, east of Johannesburg, since mid-July. The latest body was found on Thursday morning in Dawn Park, Boksburg, bringing the total to nine.

Acting Police Minister Firoz Cachalia confirmed on Tuesday night that eight bodies had been recovered, with the eighth located in Olifantsfontein. He announced a high-level investigative team combining detectives, intelligence officers, and forensic specialists.

“The thought of a woman going out for a run and never coming home is too unbearable to think about.”

Acting Gauteng Police Commissioner Major General Fred Kekana said a pathologist's preliminary assessment indicated the woman found in KwaThema, Springs, on Tuesday appeared to have been strangled. A post-mortem was scheduled for Wednesday.

Only three victims have been publicly identified: Itumeleng Kekana, Elizabeth "Tsontso" Moselakgomo, and Dineo Evelyn Motapane. Police have not confirmed whether a single perpetrator or group is responsible and have not ruled out copycat killings.

A suspect was arrested two days after the first body was found near the R21 highway on July 15, but authorities have not linked that suspect to the other deaths. Serial killer profiler Dr Micki Pistorius stated the similarities in victim profiles and dump sites warrant treating the cases as a potential serial murder investigation.

President Cyril Ramaphosa said the killings have caused fear and uncertainty, vowing that no possibility would be ignored. Authorities are offering a reward of 400,000 rand for information leading to arrests.