The latest body was discovered on Saturday evening, September 12, intensifying concern about the deaths in and around Rhodesfield, east of Johannesburg.
Preliminary investigations found similarities in the circumstances surrounding the deaths. The women were reportedly found partially clothed, with visible bruising, and the bodies were discovered within the same vicinity.
However, SAPS said investigators had not established whether the deaths were connected or involved a serial killer.
“While investigations are still underway and we have not confirmed that these deaths are linked to a serial killer, the similarities are sufficiently concerning for us to issue a public warning and intensify our investigations,” National Police Spokesperson Brigadier Athlenda Mathe said.
Acting National Police Commissioner Lieutenant-General Puleng Dimpane instructed Gauteng Provincial Commissioner Lieutenant-General Tommy Mthombeni to establish the task team immediately.
The investigation will be led by Gauteng Deputy Provincial Commissioner Major-General Mbuso Khumalo and will include detectives from the Murder and Robbery Unit, Investigative Psychology Unit and other specialised disciplines.
Khumalo has been instructed to pursue every possible line of inquiry to establish what happened to each woman and whether the cases are linked.
“The safety of women remains a priority for SAPS,” Mathe said. “We will not wait for further incidents before taking decisive action.”
Police urged women in Kempton Park, particularly Rhodesfield and surrounding areas, to avoid walking or running alone in isolated places.
Residents were advised to remain alert, avoid secluded areas and travel or exercise in groups where possible.
SAPS also appealed to residents, motorists, security personnel and community members who may have witnessed suspicious activity to provide information.
“SAPS is taking these incidents extremely seriously,” Mathe said. “Specialised police resources have been mobilised to establish the circumstances surrounding these deaths and bring those responsible to justice.”
–SABC/ChannelAfrica–
