Eight Women Found Dead in South Africa Spark Serial Killer Fears

South African authorities are investigating the deaths of eight women whose bodies were discovered in the Ekurhuleni metropolitan area, east of Johannesburg, over a two-month period, prompting President Cyril Ramaphosa to vow that no stone will be left unturned in the pursuit of justice. The bodies were found between July and September in locations including Kempton Park, Olifantsfontein, Rhodesfield, and KwaThema. Police have not confirmed that the killings are linked or that a serial killer is responsible, but the geographic and temporal proximity has raised significant public alarm. A multidisciplinary team of detectives, intelligence officers, tracking units, and forensic specialists has been deployed to investigate possible connections between the cases. Among the victims is Elizabeth Tsontso Moselakgomo, 38, a recreational runner who disappeared after leaving home for a run on September 9. Her body was found near the R21 highway three days later and identified by her family on September 14. Another identified victim, Itumeleng Kekana, 32, was reported missing on July 17 and found on August 3 in Kempton Park. Police reported she had suffered multiple stab wounds.