Criminologists are piecing together a chilling profile of the suspect behind a string of murders that have terrorised Gauteng’s East Rand, revealing a calculated predator who uses fake ride-share offers to trap victims.
According to criminologist Dr TD Ngoveni of the department of criminology and security science at UNISA, the killer displays a specific targeting pattern, focusing exclusively on black women in their thirties who move alone in public spaces,
“These are people travelling from work, heading to a taxi or train, or active enough to go jogging. This exposes them to opportunistic offenders,” Ngoveni said.
The suspect is likely between his forties and fifties, strong enough to dispose of bodies. Ngoveni ruled out anyone over 60, saying the physical demands of the crimes require considerable strength.
The false ride-share strategy
A woman who escaped at Mosquito Park on Sunday evening provided investigators with crucial information about the killer’s method. The suspect poses as a ride-share driver, offering lifts to women in high-traffic zones like Rhodesfield.
“People use all sorts of ways to target and lure victims. It can be offering a ride-share opportunity or approaching someone when they move alone,” Ngoveni explained.
This approach gives the killer control without drawing public attention. Victims enter the vehicle willingly, unaware of the danger.
Victim detention and forensic gaps
The timeline of Itumeleng Kekana’s disappearance shows disturbing gaps. She vanished on 17 July but was only found on 3 August.
Criminologist Professor Christiaan Bezuidenhout warned against speculation before forensic results arrive. “There are so many scientific facts that must first be gathered and the bodies must be examined. Then they start putting all these facts together,” he said.
Psychological signature reveals rage
The killer leaves distinct markers at crime scenes. Victims’ faces are mutilated beyond recognition, pointing to intense rage or depersonalisation.
“Serial killers often leave a distinctive signature at victims’ crime scenes,” Bezuidenhout said. This can manifest in various ways, from how underwear is positioned to how arms and legs are tied.
The complete or partial stripping of bodies serves a dual purpose. It satisfies a sadistic or sexual signature while removing forensic evidence. Cable ties found on the first victim show a need for absolute physical control.
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Highway dumping reveals mobility
The suspect uses the R21 and N12 highways as part of a calculated disposal strategy. Bodies appear in open fields and road reserves directly bordering major routes, allowing quick escape.
“In most cases, a serial killer uses one area. They choose a specific place and identify an area where they can carry out their criminal activities,” Ngoveni said.
The killer however demonstrates forensic awareness. National police spokesperson Brig. Athlenda Mathe acknowledged that the suspect had moved the sites where bodies were disposed of further away, after police began searching Kempton Park intensively.
“In a way, they also listen to what’s happening. They follow the news,” Bezuidenhout said, referring to previous serial killers who monitored investigations and media reports.
The suspect’s ability to adapt disposal locations shows a rational, calculating mind that actively tracks investigative developments.
- Dr Ngoveni and Professor Bezuidenhout where interviewed by the Afrikaans weekly, Die Papier.
