Body of 10th woman found in South Africa’s Ekurhuleni

South African police have discovered 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 in Tembisa township on Saturday, as police continue investigations into the deaths and work to determine whether they are connected.

 

Police spokesperson, Brigadier Brenda Muridili, said investigators and other relevant personnel were at the scene.

 

“At this stage, we can only confirm the discovery of the body. Crime scene management and all the necessary role players are currently on the scene,” she said.

 

Local broadcaster eNCA reported that the semi-naked body was found at a cemetery.

 

The nine other victims were mostly women in their 20s and 30s. Some were reportedly found partially or completely undressed, with indications 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 other suspects, women aged 31 and 38, were arrested in connection with the ninth victim and charged on Monday.

 

Police have said the case involving the ninth victim may have been linked to a relationship-related dispute.

 

The latest discovery comes days after the Nigerian Consulate-General in Johannesburg issued a safety advisory to Nigerians, particularly women, living, working or travelling through parts of Ekurhuleni, following the deaths of several women in the area.

 

Police are yet to establish whether the deaths are connected.

 

The developments have renewed concerns over gender-based violence in South Africa, which continues to record high levels of violent crime.