South Africa: High-Level Team Formed to Tackle Ekurhuleni Murders

What the report says

South African police have formed a high-level, multidisciplinary team to investigate a series of murders of women in Ekurhuleni, Gauteng, according to a SAnews.gov.za report distributed by AllAfrica. Acting Police Minister Professor Firoz Cachalia said the team has the experience and expertise needed for the probe, and that political leaders will support law enforcement until the cases are resolved for the benefit of victims’ families.

The briefing on Tuesday evening included Cachalia, Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities Minister Sindisiwe Chikunga, Social Development Minister Dina Pule, Deputy Police Minister Polly Boshielo, Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi and Acting National Police Commissioner Lieutenant General Puleng Dimpane. Police said they had found four women’s bodies over roughly two months, then discovered two more on Monday and Tuesday, followed by an eighth body announced later on Tuesday.

Authorities are increasing police visibility in Kempton Park and nearby areas through Operation Shanela, with plans to intensify enforcement in the coming weeks. Police are also offering a R400,000 reward for information that could lead to arrests. Cachalia urged communities, patrol groups, churches and civil society to support investigators and avoid rumours or speculation on social media.

President Cyril Ramaphosa said he had instructed police to prioritize the cases and pursue those responsible. The report also identifies one victim as 38-year-old Elizabeth “Tsontso” Moselakgomo, whose family confirmed her body after she disappeared while going for a run. The case has drawn attention because it adds to broader concerns about violence against women in South Africa.