South African president vows justice as more women's bodies found near Johannesburg

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1. 1h ago

   South African Police Probe 8 Women's Deaths Near Johannesburg

   South African authorities are investigating the deaths of eight women found in the Ekurhuleni area east of Johannesburg since July. President Cyril Ramaphosa has ordered police to prioritize the cases as the discovery of the bodies, including Elizabeth Moselakgomo, fuels public anger over femicide. Some victims were found naked or partially clothed with signs of possible sexual violence. While one suspect is in custody, police have not confirmed if a serial killer is responsible, though they are probing whether a single person or group is behind the killings.

   Why it matters

   The deaths occur amid persistent concerns regarding gender-based violence in South Africa. The concentration of bodies in the Kempton Park area has led to police warnings for women to avoid walking or jogging alone in isolated locations.

   What is confirmed

   • South African police are investigating the deaths of eight women found in Ekurhuleni, east of Johannesburg, since July.
   • President Cyril Ramaphosa ordered police to prioritize the investigations into these deaths.
   • The victims include Elizabeth Moselakgomo.
   • One suspect is currently in custody following the discovery of the first body.

   Still unconfirmed

   • A serial killer is responsible for the deaths.
   • The cases are linked to a single person or group.

   What to watch next

   • Police confirmation on whether the eight deaths are linked to a single perpetrator.
   • Updates on the status of the suspect currently in custody.
   • Official forensic results regarding the signs of sexual violence.
   Sources used for this update (12)

   1. CBS News — Body of 7th woman found in same area of South Africa, sparking fears of serial killer
   2. Reuters — South African police probe killings of seven women, Ramaphosa vows action
   3. BBC — South African president vows justice as more women's bodies found near Johannesburg
   4. The Independent — Serial killer fears grow as seven women found dead near major city
   5. dw.com — South Africa now probing deaths of 8 women near Johannesburg
   6. BBC — Kempton Park: Fear in South Africa after Elizabeth Moselakgomo's body found
   7. Yahoo — South African police issue alert after seventh woman's body found near Johannesburg
   8. WFLA — Seventh woman’s body found near Johannesburg sparking fear of potential serial killer
   9. eNCA — Discovery of eighth body added to investigations into Ekurhuleni murders
   10. The Guardian — ‘We are prey’: discovery of seven women’s bodies fuels anger over femicide in South Africa
   11. www.newsday.com — What to know about the deaths of 8 women in South Africa that have sparked fear and anger
   12. allafrica.com — South African President Vows Justice As More Women's Bodies Found
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