Full Breakdown
South Africa Investigates String of Women’s Deaths in Ekurhuleni
By Drooid · · How we work
The Growing Cluster of Fatalities
Police in the Ekurhuleni municipality, east of Johannesburg, are investigating the deaths of multiple women whose bodies have been found partially or fully naked in isolated locations. The victims were discovered over a two-month period, prompting a public warning that women should avoid walking or jogging alone in the area. Authorities have not confirmed whether a single perpetrator, a group, or unrelated incidents are responsible.
Timeline of Discoveries
- July 15 – 37-year-old woman found naked and bound with cable ties.
- August 24 – 32-year-old woman discovered partially clothed.
- September 7 – Female body found in a river near a mall.
- September 10 – Decomposed, naked body recovered.
- September 12 – Partially clothed 38-year-old runner located behind a hotel.
- September 14 – Elizabeth “Tsontso” Moselakgomo, 38, identified after her body was found.
- September 15 – Unidentified woman in her late twenties discovered naked except for underwear in Kwa-Thema.
Data & Statistics
- South Africa records roughly 5,427 murders between April and July, an average of 45 per day.
- UN Women reports the nation’s femicide rate is five times the global average.
- The United Nations estimates one in three South African women experiences physical or sexual violence in her lifetime.
- Five of the identified victims were reported to have been sexually assaulted; several showed bruising.
Official Statements & Responses
Acting Police Minister Firoz Cachalia described the deaths as “deeply disturbing” and said a multidisciplinary task team has been mobilised, including detectives, forensic specialists, K9 units and investigative psychologists.
Police spokesperson Athlenda Mathe noted that SAPS has not confirmed a serial-killer link but said the similarities between cases are “sufficiently concerning” to issue a public warning. Acting Gauteng provincial police commissioner Maj-Gen Fred Kekana reiterated that the investigation remains evidence-driven and cautioned against premature conclusions about a single perpetrator.
Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on Police Ian Cameron warned against claiming connections that have not been established, while Commission for Gender Equality spokesperson Javu Baloyi called for an urgent safety audit of lighting, surveillance and police visibility in the affected areas.
On-the-Ground Reports
Resident Siyamthanda Msomi of Rhodesfield said she now avoids traveling alone in the mornings, fearing for her safety despite occasional police patrols.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
Sources differ on the total number of bodies under investigation: several outlets report seven victims, while later reports mention an eighth body recovered, raising the count to eight. Police officials repeatedly stress that no formal link has been established, highlighting the evolving nature of the probe and the need for further forensic clarification.
What’s Next
Police have announced a continued multidisciplinary effort, including a pending post-mortem on the September 7 body and a public appeal for CCTV, ANPR or dash-cam footage. The Commission for Gender Equality’s safety audit will assess lighting, surveillance and emergency-assistance access. Authorities have also offered a R400,000 reward for information leading to breakthroughs. Community members are urged to report any relevant observations to the designated police contact numbers.