South African police are investigating the deaths of nine women discovered in the Ekurhuleni municipality over the past two months. The latest victim, an unidentified woman estimated to be around 30 years old, was found in Dawn Park on September 17. Authorities reported that she had been stabbed and appeared to have been killed at a different location before her body was moved.
The series of deaths began on July 17, with five of the victims discovered in the Kempton Park area and others found in locations between 25 and 35 kilometers away. Of the nine victims, four have been identified as Dineo Motapane, Gracious Nkomo, Elizabeth Moselakgomo, and Itumeleng Kekana. Five victims remain unidentified.
Police are examining potential links between the cases, noting similarities in the victims’ ages and the condition of the bodies, some of which were found partially clothed or with similar bruising. Gauteng police commissioner Fred Kekana stated that investigators are considering all possibilities, including the potential for multiple suspects or separate perpetrators. Authorities are currently comparing evidence, timelines, and victim profiles.
At least one suspect has been detained and appeared in court on September 16. Police are working to verify the suspect’s nationality. Additionally, officials are investigating a person of interest, though it remains unclear if this is the same individual. A reward of 400,000 rand has been offered for information leading to an arrest.
President Cyril Ramaphosa has directed police to conduct a thorough investigation. The killings have sparked public concern regarding gender-based violence in South Africa, where the rate of femicide is significantly higher than the global average. While police have advised women in the area to exercise caution, the National Shelter Movement of South Africa and the Commission for Gender Equality have emphasized that the responsibility for preventing violence rests with the state and society rather than individual women.
Article source: www.aljazeera.com | Image credit: www.aljazeera.com