South Africa: Call to Refrain From Sharing False Information About Ekuthuleni Murders

What the report says

South Africa’s police in North West province have warned the public not to circulate or rely on a social media message claiming that a suspect linked to the so-called “Kempton Park Serial Killer” had moved to Potchefstroom and that a major police operation was underway there. According to the statement reported by SAnews.gov.za and carried by AllAfrica, local police said they had not received an official report or complaint confirming the message’s specific claims, including references to an incident near the Bult, a suspect description, or the use of a mobile command centre, drones and specialist units.

The police acknowledged that serious investigations are taking place in Gauteng’s Kempton Park area, but said that does not prove any suspect has relocated to Potchefstroom. North West acting provincial commissioner Major General Ryno Naidoo urged residents, students and businesses to stay calm, remain alert and avoid spreading unverified information that could cause panic or divert police resources. He said any genuine operational update or public safety warning would be issued through official SAPS channels.

The warning comes amid broader concern over a series of killings of women in Ekurhuleni, where authorities have said a multidisciplinary team is investigating the deaths. In general terms, police appeals like this are meant to limit rumors during active investigations and to encourage people to report information directly through emergency lines rather than trying to verify claims themselves.