Full Breakdown
Spike in Female Homicides in Ekurhuleni Raises Fear of a Serial Killer
By Drooid · · How we work
The string of killings (Core Event)
The first victim, 37-year-old Busisiwe Mahlangu, was found naked and bound with cable ties in Kempton Park on July 15, 2026. Over the next two months, additional bodies were discovered across the Ekurhuleni municipality (east of Johannesburg). Notable finds include Itumeleng Kekana on August 3, 2026, Nomfesane Mjobo on August 26, 2026, and a series of September discoveries: an unknown woman on September 7, a partially clothed woman near the airport on September 10, Elizabeth Moselakgomo on September 12, a victim in Olifantsfontein on September 14, Dineo Motapane on September 15, Jabulile Ntimba on September 17, Ntombifuthi Nxumalo on September 26, and another unidentified woman on September 26. Police have confirmed at least ten bodies as of September 26, 2026, while some reports cite twelve victims.
Background & Context
South Africa records one of the world’s highest homicide rates. Police statistics show 5,427 people murdered between April and June 2026, while the South African Human Rights Commission reported 569 women killed in the same three-month span—about six women per day. Gender-based violence has been declared a national disaster, and the concentration of female victims in a single municipality has amplified public alarm.
Official Statements & Responses
Provincial police chief Lt Gen Tommy Mthombeni said investigators have identified “similar victimology” and a possible “modus operandi,” but cautioned that a serial-killer conclusion cannot yet be confirmed. The South African Police Service (SAPS) announced the formation of a multidisciplinary task team, including the Investigative Psychology Unit, to compare crime scenes and victim profiles. A 400,000 rand reward was publicised, and the Democratic Alliance pledged an additional US$31,000.
On-the-Ground Reports
Women living in the affected suburbs have altered daily routines. Runner Nancy Masha (39) now carries pepper spray and a knife after her colleague Elizabeth Moselakgomo was murdered while jogging. She said, “Our runner was brutally killed. I needed a way to protect myself because I am a woman and also a runner.” Data analyst Hlompho Matji expressed concern about the practicality of self-defence tools, noting, “We are not trained to use those things.” Community vigils and solidarity runs have been organised across the country, reflecting widespread anxiety.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
- Number of victims: BBC outlets report 12 bodies, while CBS News and several local sources cite 10 confirmed victims as of September 26, 2026.
- Cause of death: Police have suggested stoning (Ntombifuthi Nxumalo), sexual assault, and a relationship-related dispute (Jabulile Ntimba), but no definitive forensic link has been established across cases.
- Serial-killer link: Authorities have not ruled out a serial offender, yet they also note that some killings appear isolated, creating uncertainty about a single perpetrator.
What’s Next
The two women charged for the ninth killing are scheduled to appear for a bail application on October 1. Police continue to solicit tips through the cash reward and are maintaining a high-visibility investigative team. President Ramaphosa is expected to address the nation on broader gender-based violence measures while the Ekurhuleni task force works to determine whether the murders are connected.