Gauteng | Ekurhuleni
The discovery of a ninth woman’s body in Ekurhuleni has intensified one of South Africa’s biggest crime investigations, with police now examining whether the death is linked to eight other women whose bodies have been found across the East Rand since July 2026. The growing number of victims has sparked widespread concern among communities, government leaders and women’s rights organisations, while investigators work to determine whether a serial offender, multiple perpetrators or another pattern may be behind the deaths.
The latest victim was discovered in Dawn Park, Ekurhuleni, on 17 September 2026. Police said the woman, believed to be around 30 years old, was found with injuries suggesting a violent death. Her identity had not yet been officially released as authorities worked to notify family members and complete forensic examinations.
The case has become one of the most closely watched criminal investigations in South Africa. Since July, nine women aged between approximately 20 and 38 have been found dead in different parts of Ekurhuleni. Several victims were discovered partially clothed, while others showed signs of violence. These similarities have led investigators to explore whether the deaths could be connected.
Although police have not officially declared the case the work of a serial killer, authorities have confirmed that specialised teams are examining potential links between the murders. Detectives, forensic experts, criminal profilers and intelligence officers have been brought together to analyse evidence, victim profiles, timelines and crime scene information.
The South African Police Service (SAPS) has expanded the investigation in recent weeks, while the Department of Home Affairs has also joined efforts to identify victims and assist investigators with tracing relatives and gathering background information. Authorities say every available resource is being used to establish whether a common perpetrator or network may be involved.
One of the victims who drew significant public attention was Elizabeth “Tsontso” Moselakgomo, a 38-year-old social runner whose disappearance and subsequent death shocked communities across Gauteng. Her case became a rallying point for activists and community organisations demanding urgent action to protect women and solve the murders.
President Cyril Ramaphosa has called for the investigation to be prioritised, while Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi has indicated that provincial authorities are working closely with SAPS to ensure all leads are pursued. Both national and provincial leaders have acknowledged the fear and anxiety the killings have created among residents.
The murders have reignited debate around gender-based violence and femicide in South Africa. Women’s rights groups argue that the investigation highlights ongoing concerns about the safety of women and the need for stronger interventions to combat violence against women and children.
Community organisations across Ekurhuleni have also responded by increasing awareness campaigns, organising safety patrols and encouraging residents to remain vigilant. Several running clubs and community groups have advised members not to travel alone where possible while the investigation continues.
Police have urged members of the public not to spread unverified rumours or graphic images on social media, warning that misinformation could complicate investigations and cause unnecessary panic. Authorities continue to appeal for information from anyone who may have seen suspicious activity or who may have knowledge that could assist investigators.
At this stage, police have not announced any arrests directly linked to the broader investigation. However, detectives remain confident that forensic evidence, witness statements, cellphone data and other investigative tools will help establish what happened and who may be responsible.
The coming days and weeks are expected to be critical as investigators work to determine whether the nine deaths are connected. If links are confirmed, the case could become one of the most significant serial murder investigations in modern South African history.
For residents of Ekurhuleni and communities across Gauteng, the investigation has become about more than solving individual crimes. It has become a test of law enforcement’s ability to bring justice to victims, provide answers to grieving families and restore public confidence that those responsible will be found.
