South African police are probing the deaths of seven women found near Johannesburg over the past two months, with several victims showing signs of sexual violence. President Cyril Ramaphosa has pledged a full and thorough inquiry as investigators seek to determine whether the killings are connected. Authorities said the victims were mostly in their 20s and 30s, and police are exploring whether a single attacker, multiple suspects, or copycats are responsible amid rising concern over gender-based violence.
Seven Women Found Dead Near Johannesburg; Ramaphosa Pledges Thorough Probe
South Africa's President Cyril Ramaphosa addresses the Investing in African Mining Indaba conference in Cape Town, South Africa February 5, 2019. REUTERS/Mike Hutchings
South African police are investigating the deaths of seven women whose bodies were discovered at separate locations in and around Johannesburg over the past two months. Several victims were found stripped of clothing and showed signs consistent with sexual violence, authorities said.
President Cyril Ramaphosa vowed that "no stone will be left unturned" as investigators work to establish how the women died and whether the killings are linked.
Investigation Details
Police say the victims were mostly in their 20s or 30s. One woman has been identified as having disappeared after leaving home for an afternoon run. Some remains were found completely naked, others partially clothed, and officers reported that one body was in an advanced state of decomposition when discovered.
Authorities are examining whether the incidents in and around Ekurhuleni, east of Johannesburg, were committed by a single perpetrator, by multiple independent suspects, or by copycat offenders attempting to mimic earlier crimes. At this stage investigators have not identified a clear motive.
Public Reaction And Context
The killings have provoked widespread condemnation from civil society groups, sporting bodies and community leaders, highlighting long-standing fears over gender-based and violent crime in South Africa. Despite government pledges and campaigns to curb violence against women, such attacks remain a deeply entrenched social problem.
South Africa records one of the world’s highest murder rates—official statistics put the average at about 60 homicides a day—and violent crime is a major source of public anxiety as the country prepares for municipal elections in November.
What’s next: Police continue to appeal for public tips and forensic assistance as they follow leads and piece together whether the deaths are linked.
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