South African police are investigating the deaths of seven women whose bodies were discovered near Johannesburg over the past two months, prompting President Cyril Ramaphosa to pledge a thorough investigation.
Police said on Tuesday that some victims had been found naked or partially clothed, with signs of sexual violence. Investigators are examining whether the killings in and around Ekurhuleni, east of Johannesburg, are linked to one perpetrator, several suspects or copycat criminals.
Most of the victims were in their 20s or 30s. One was identified as a woman who disappeared after leaving home for an afternoon run. One of the bodies was already decomposing when discovered.
Ramaphosa promised that “no stone will be left unturned” as authorities investigate the deaths, which have drawn condemnation from civil society groups and sporting organisations.
Police have yet to establish a motive.
The killings have renewed alarm over violence against women, a deeply entrenched problem in South Africa despite repeated government commitments to address it.
Official crime statistics show the country records an average of about 60 murders a day, placing it among those with the world’s highest murder rates.
Violent crime remains a major source of public anger and anxiety as South Africa heads towards municipal elections in November.
