South Africa: Six women found dead, Ramaphosa urges police action

Six bodies of women have been discovered over the past two months in various areas of Ekurhuleni, east of Johannesburg. South African President Cyril Ramaphosa called on Tuesday, September 15, for the police to prioritize investigations following the discovery of a sixth body in KwaThema.

The initial discoveries were concentrated around Kempton Park and along the R21 route. Four bodies had been reported over the last two months, followed by a fifth found on Monday in Olifantsfontein and a sixth on Tuesday in KwaThema, within the Ekurhuleni municipality.

Authorities have not publicly announced any connection between the six deaths. The police have formed a multidisciplinary team to review the cases, compare collected evidence, and determine if any of the cases are linked.

Cyril Ramaphosa stated that he had been informed by the Minister of Police and the acting National Commissioner. He urged investigators to mobilize necessary resources and treat these cases as a priority, as the successive discoveries have heightened concern among local residents.

Ian Cameron, the chair of the parliamentary police committee, also called on the public to cooperate with investigators. Parliament indicated that the committee would monitor the progress of the investigations while allowing police services to conduct their work.

Among the identified victims is Elizabeth Moselakgomo, who went missing after going for a run and whose body was later identified by her family. The sixth woman was found on September 15 by the roadside in KwaThema, and her identity had not yet been disclosed in initial police communications.