Tenth Woman Found Dead in South Africa’s String of Killings

South African police have found the body of another woman in Ekurhuleni, east of Johannesburg, bringing to 10 the number of women found dead in the municipality over the past two months.

The latest body was discovered on Saturday in the Tembisa township, according to police, who said investigations were underway to determine the circumstances surrounding the death.

Police spokeswoman Brigadier Brenda Muridili said authorities could only confirm the discovery at this stage, as crime scene investigators and other relevant personnel were working at the location.

“At this stage, we can only confirm the discovery of the body,” Muridili said.

The latest case has heightened concern over violence against women in the area, while investigators continue to examine whether the deaths are connected.

The nine other victims were found in different locations across Ekurhuleni since July. Some of the women were discovered with their clothes removed, while reports indicated that some showed signs of sexual assault.

The first victim, a 37-year-old woman, was found naked and bound with cable ties on July 15. A suspect was arrested two days later.

Two women, aged 31 and 38, were subsequently arrested in connection with the death of the ninth victim and charged.

Police have previously cautioned against treating all the cases as connected until investigations establish a definite link.

Authorities have nevertheless intensified efforts to identify those responsible. Earlier in September, police announced a 400,000-rand reward for information that could lead to arrests in connection with the Ekurhuleni killings.

The South African government has also described the deaths as a serious national concern amid wider efforts to combat gender-based violence and femicide.

The discovery of the tenth body is expected to increase pressure on investigators to determine whether a common perpetrator or network is responsible for some or all of the deaths.

Police have appealed to residents with information about the cases to come forward as investigations continue.

No further details about the latest victim, including her identity or the circumstances of her death, had been released at the time of reporting.