South African police have discovered the body of a ninth woman in Ekurhuleni, east of Johannesburg, amid an investigation into a series of killings involving women across the area.

The latest body was found in the Dawn Park area of Ekurhuleni on Thursday, according to Gauteng acting provincial police commissioner, Maj.-Gen. Fred Kekana. Preliminary investigations indicated that the woman’s remains had been dumped at the location.

Eight other women have been found dead in Ekurhuleni and surrounding communities since July, prompting authorities to investigate whether the cases are connected.

The victims have been discovered in different locations, including near roads, open fields, a river and other areas. Some were found partially clothed or naked, while preliminary findings in one case indicated that the victim had been strangled.

One of the victims, 38-year-old Elizabeth Moselakgomo, was reportedly found behind a hotel after she failed to return from her usual run. Another woman, Itumeleng Kekana, 32, had earlier been reported missing before her body was found in Kempton Park.

Acting National Police Commissioner Lt.-Gen. Puleng Dimpane said one person had been arrested in connection with one of the killings, while police were also tracing another person of interest.

A multidisciplinary team comprising detectives, forensic experts, crime intelligence officers and specialised police units has been established to investigate the deaths.

Authorities have offered a R400,000 reward for information that could lead to arrests, while the Democratic Alliance has announced an additional R500,000 reward.

President Cyril Ramaphosa has directed the police to prioritise the investigation, while authorities have urged members of the public to provide information that could assist in identifying those responsible.