Full Breakdown
Nine Women Found Dead in Ekurhuleni: Investigation, Community Fear, and Calls for Action
By Drooid · · How we work
Core Event
Since 15 July 2026, nine women have been discovered across the Ekurhuleni municipality, east of Johannesburg. Victims were found partially clothed, with bruises or stab wounds, in Kempton Park, Olifantsfontein, Clayville, Kwa-Thema and Dawn Park. The most recent victim, a woman in her 30s, was found on 17 September 2026 in Dawn Park, wrapped in a sheet. Police treat the cases as separate investigations while a multidisciplinary team examines possible links.
Background & Context
The killings follow heightened national concern over gender-based violence (GBV) in South Africa. In November 2025, GBV was declared a national disaster, yet the murders highlight ongoing gaps in prevention and response. Earlier victims include runner Elizabeth “Tsontso” Moselakgomo, missing on 9 September 2026 and found on 12 September, and Dineo Evelyn Motapane, identified after her body was recovered on 15 September 2026 in Kwa-Thema.
Data & Statistics
- Total bodies discovered: nine (as of 17 September 2026).
- Identified victims: two (Moselakgomo and Motapane).
- Ages: 20–38 years, most in their 30s.
- Rewards: R400 000 by SAPS and R500 000 by the Democratic Alliance.
Official Statements & Responses
Acting Police Minister Firoz Cachalia warned against speculation, saying investigators are dealing with “quite distinct, separate events.” Acting National Police Commissioner Lieutenant-General Puleng Dimpane pledged continued on-the-ground investigations and urged the public to report information through official channels. Gauteng Acting Provincial Police Commissioner Fred Kekana confirmed that a multidisciplinary team of detectives, intelligence officers, forensic experts and K9 units is active, and that a “person of interest” is being pursued.
Criticism & Opposition
Former SAPS profiler Gérard Labuschagne argued that the clustering of victims warrants treating the cases as a potential serial-murder investigation until evidence proves otherwise, emphasizing the need for specialised resources. Activist groups, including the Forum for the Empowerment of Women (FEW) and the National Shelter Movement, criticised the focus on personal safety measures, calling for systemic action to address the underlying culture of violence. The ANC Women’s League and Sonke Gender Justice have demanded harsher punitive measures and a national debate on the death penalty.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
Sources differ on the total count of victims: some outlets reported eight bodies, while others, after the Dawn Park discovery, cite nine. Police have not linked the deaths to a serial killer, yet the similarity of victimology and geography fuels public speculation. No official confirmation exists regarding the identity of the “person of interest,” and the timeline of when investigators first compared the cases remains unclear.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Let's not get emotional, the gloves are off,” — Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi
- “If anyone has information about these incidents or if you are missing a relative or friend, please contact Warrant Officer Elvis Manyike on 082 465 7249,” — President Ramaphosa
What’s Next
Police have announced ongoing forensic analysis, DNA testing for unidentified victims, and continued community outreach for information. The multidisciplinary task team will maintain heightened patrols in identified hotspots, and the reward offers remain open pending credible leads.