GAUTENG – Police have launched a multidisciplinary investigation after discovering the bodies of four women in the Kempton Park area between July and September, with one suspect already in custody.

Acting Gauteng Commissioner Major General Fred Kekana addressed the media today (13 September) about the concerning discovery of the bodies, all found in similar circumstances near the R21 and in Rhodesfield.

The first victim, a woman (37), was discovered near the R21 on 15 July. She was found naked and had been restrained with cable ties. A suspect was arrested two days later on 17 July and remains in custody while the investigation continues.

A second woman (32) was found partially clothed near the R21 on 24 August. The third victim, whose identity remains unknown, was discovered on 10 September in an advanced state of decomposition. Police are working to establish her identity.

The most recent discovery came on 12 September when the body of a woman (38) was found at the back of a hotel in Rhodesfield. She was wearing sports clothing and was partially clothed. Her identity is subject to formal confirmation by family members through the mortuary identification process.

Links between cases still unclear

Kekana cautioned against speculation about whether the cases are connected. “While there are similarities in some of the circumstances surrounding the cases, it would be premature at this stage to conclude that the four cases are linked or that they involve one perpetrator,” he said.

A multidisciplinary team of experts, including the Investigative Psychology Unit, Provincial Tracking Team and K9 Search and Rescue units, is analysing evidence, timelines, locations and victim profiles to determine if any links exist between the cases.

“We are not limiting ourselves to one suspect or one theory. Once we have balanced and analysed all the available evidence, we will be able to determine whether these cases are connected, whether multiple suspects are involved, or whether these are separate investigations,” Kekana said.

Dating site robberies spark warning

In a separate but related concern, Kempton Park police station has identified approximately 10 cases where people met individuals through online dating platforms and social media, only to be robbed and, in some instances, raped.

Kekana issued a stern warning to people using dating platforms. “Do not share unnecessary personal information. Do not allow strangers to lure you to isolated locations. When meeting someone for the first time, choose a public place and ensure that a trusted family member or friend knows where you are, who you are meeting and where you will be.”

He urged anyone who feels unsafe during a meeting to leave immediately and seek assistance.

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Community urged to share information

Police are appealing to anyone with information about the cases, suspicious activity in the affected areas, or the movements of any of the victims to contact Warrant Officer Elvis Manyike on 082 465 7249.

Kekana emphasised that even seemingly insignificant information could help investigators connect evidence. Families who have missing relatives who have not yet been reported missing should approach their nearest police station immediately.

Safety precautions for women

Given the circumstances, police are urging women and girls to take extra precautions when exercising, walking or running alone. Where possible, they should exercise in groups, inform someone of their whereabouts and expected return time, avoid isolated areas, and remain in populated, well-lit locations.

“This is not about restricting the freedom of women to move, exercise or live their lives. It is about taking reasonable precautions while the police continue with these investigations,” Kekana said.

The acting commissioner stressed that Gender-Based Violence and Femicide remains a priority crime for the South African Police Service. “We will not rest until we have answers. GBVF remains a priority crime, and the SAPS will continue to pursue perpetrators of violence against women and children with the urgency and seriousness that these crimes demand.”