…As Ramaphosa Vows Justice For Seven Killed Women
Fear and uncertainty have gripped communities around Kempton Park, north-east of Johannesburg, following the discovery of the bodies of seven women over the past two months.
South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has vowed that authorities will leave “no stone unturned” in identifying and prosecuting those responsible for the deaths.
Police said another body was discovered on Tuesday, bringing the number of women whose deaths are being investigated to seven. Most of the victims were found either partially or completely naked.
“These incidents are causing fear and uncertainty in our communities, and especially among women,” Ramaphosa said.
The deaths have raised concerns about the possibility of a serial killer operating in the area. However, police said they had not established any link to a serial killer and were investigating whether a group of people could be responsible.
Police spokesperson Brigadier Athlenda Mathe said investigators were also considering the possibility of copycat crimes.
“It could be that it’s a copycat crime that is happening right here but so far, no linkages as yet,” Mathe said.
Authorities have made one arrest in connection with the discovery of the first body, with the suspect remaining in police custody as investigations continue.
So far, only two of the seven victims have been identified.
The string of deaths has heightened concerns among residents, particularly women, as police continue efforts to determine whether the cases are connected and establish the circumstances surrounding each death.
