South Africa: Activists Demand Police Action After 12th Woman Killed

What the report says

Activists in Ekurhuleni, South Africa, marched to the Kempton Park police station after the killing of a 12th woman in the area, pressing police to take stronger action against femicide and gender-based violence. The demonstration involved members of Abahlali baseMjondolo, Cry of the Xcluded and the Socio-Economic Rights Institute of South Africa (SERI), according to GroundUp, which was republished by AllAfrica on 28 September 2026.

The group handed over a memorandum calling for a public update on investigations into the killings of several women since July. They also asked for a well-resourced, women-led GBV task team and a 24-hour victim support room at the station. SERI director Nomzamo Zondo said weak policing in townships and informal settlements, along with poor living conditions, was helping drive violence.

Residents who joined the march described fear and limited confidence in police response. A Soweto woman said she stays indoors early in the evening because she feels unsafe, while a Tembisa resident said visible policing remains inadequate and emergency responses can be delayed. The reporting comes as local officials have previously promised more surveillance and improved services, including lighting and grass cutting, and as South African Police Service headquarters said it had added personnel to Kempton Park station. The broader issue is part of the country’s continuing struggle with violent crime and violence against women.