The South African police are investigating the deaths of seven women found in East Johannesburg over the past two months. Following the discovery of another body on Tuesday, further investigations are underway.
Concerns About a Serial Killer
The deaths of these women have raised concerns about the existence of a serial killer or a group of killers in the area. Several of the victims were found naked or semi-naked, with some showing signs of sexual violence.
The South African Police Service (SAPS) has issued a public warning and urged women to exercise caution when running or engaging in similar activities in the area.
Government Prioritizes Investigations
Cyril Ramaphosa, the President of South Africa, instructed the police on Tuesday to prioritize the investigations and stated that these deaths have caused "fear and uncertainty" in the community. He promised that "no stone will be left unturned."
The bodies of the victims have been found in several locations in the Ekurhuleni municipality, East Johannesburg. The police reported that the first victim, a 37-year-old woman, was found naked with wire handcuffs on July 15. A suspect was arrested two days later.
Another woman, aged 32, was found semi-naked on August 24. The body of another woman was discovered on September 7 in a river near the town of Tembisa, which is now included in a broader investigation.
One of the victims, who was 38 years old, disappeared after leaving her eight-year-old daughter home alone to go for a run. Her semi-naked body was found on September 12 behind a hotel.
Another body was discovered in the Kwa-Thema township on Tuesday. The police have not yet confirmed whether these deaths are linked to a serial killer.
The police have stated that the similarities between these cases are concerning enough to issue a public warning, including advising women to be cautious when running in the area.
Violence against women is a longstanding issue in South Africa. The United Nations has stated that the country has one of the highest rates of violence against women and children in the world.
About one-third of South African women report experiencing physical or sexual violence in their lifetime. These murders occur as violent crimes remain a major source of public concern ahead of the municipal elections in November.
