The body of a woman was discovered on Tuesday in the same area where several other bodies had been found over the past two months, in East Johannesburg, South Africa. This has raised concerns and prompted police investigations into the possibility of a serial killer.
Investigations and Police Warning
South African officials have stated that these cases appear to be related, although they have not confirmed whether the murders are the work of a single killer. The South African Police Service (SAPS) has warned women to exercise caution while engaging in activities such as running in this area.
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Atlanda Mathe, a police spokesperson, said: "While investigations are still ongoing and SAPS has not confirmed at this stage that these deaths are linked to a serial killer, the similarities are concerning enough for the police to decide to issue a public warning and intensify investigations."
Attention from the President
Cyril Ramaphosa, the President of South Africa, announced on Tuesday that he has instructed police officials to prioritize the ongoing murder investigations. He stated, "I have directed that these cases be prioritized and that no effort be spared in seeking justice for the victims. We need the cooperation of citizens to provide any information that could help end these attacks on women."
The police warning was issued after a body was discovered in the Kwa-Thema area, about 34 kilometers from Kempton Park. Police reported that this victim was found completely naked and in an advanced state of decomposition. Another body was discovered on Monday in Olifantsontein.
On Saturday, the body of a 38-year-old woman named Elizabeth "Tsontso" Muslakigumo was found after she went missing in Kempton Park while running. The community and police search for her ended when her semi-naked body was discovered.
This public warning highlights longstanding concerns about violent crimes in South Africa, particularly against women and children. According to the latest crime statistics, the country recorded 5,427 murders between April and July, averaging 45 murders per day.
The rates of murder against women in South Africa are among the highest in the world. A study in 2022 found that more than 35% of adult women in South Africa have experienced physical or sexual violence at some point in their lives.
The Gender Equality Commission has called for immediate preventive action, including conducting safety inspections in affected areas in collaboration with police, local authorities, transport officials, and community safety structures. The commission emphasized that inspections should include assessments of lighting, surveillance, walkways and public transport, neglected spaces, police presence, and access to emergency assistance.
Jav Baloyi, a spokesperson for the commission, said: "Women should not be killed before an area receives the attention it needs."
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Source: abcnews.com
