A fifth woman’s body was found in the Kempton Park area on Monday, 14 September, as police investigate whether a series of deaths involving women could be connected. eNCA said the latest woman’s identity and the circumstances of her death had not yet been confirmed. The discovery follows four bodies found in the area over roughly two months

What police found in the earlier cases

IOL reported that the first victim, a 37-year-old woman, was found near the R21 on 15 July. Police said she was naked and had been restrained with cable ties. A suspect was arrested two days later and remains in custody. On 24 August, the body of a 32-year-old woman was found near the R21. She was partially clothed.

A third woman was found on 10 September in an advanced state of decomposition. She was naked and had not yet been formally identified. Two days later, police found the body of a 38-year-old woman behind a hotel in Rhodesfield. She was wearing sports clothing and was partially clothed. Her identity was still awaiting formal mortuary confirmation. 

Police have not confirmed that a serial killer is operating in Kempton Park. However, according to Jacaranda FM, SAPS spokesperson Brigadier Athlenda Mathe said investigators had identified concerning similarities. The women were found partially or completely undressed, visible bruising was reported and the discovery sites were concentrated in the same general area.

Acting Gauteng provincial police commissioner Major-General Fred Kekana said it would be premature to conclude that the cases are linked or involve one perpetrator. Investigators are comparing evidence, timelines, locations, victim profiles and other circumstances before reaching a conclusion.

Task team deployed as search continues

TimesLIVE reports that a multidisciplinary team involving detectives, forensic specialists, tracking teams, K9 units and the Investigative Psychology Unit has been mobilised. Police have urged women around Kempton Park to avoid isolated areas, not walk or run alone where possible and exercise in groups.

The investigation is unfolding alongside the search for missing runner Elizabeth “Tsontso” Moselakgomo, 38, who disappeared after leaving her Kempton Park home for an afternoon run on 10 September. As of Monday, police had not confirmed that any of the recovered bodies were hers.