Two women were arrested and charged last week with murder in connection with the ninth victim found on September 17. The victim had been stabbed and her throat cut, according to police. A man was also initially arrested but was later released without charges. Police have said the ninth killing may have been an isolated case involving a relationship dispute.
Police have noticed similarities in some of the other cases but have not confirmed that a single suspect or group is responsible. Authorities have also not confirmed that a serial killer is responsible for the deaths.
All nine bodies discovered before Saturday were those of women in their twenties or thirties, according to CBS News. Several of the victims were found naked or partially clothed in open areas near main roads.
On Saturday, September 26, police confirmed that a tenth woman's body had been found near Johannesburg. Police initially released few details about the latest victim or the circumstances surrounding her death.
The South African Police Service confirmed the discovery of the body and said crime scene investigators were at the scene. Officers from the Investigative Psychology Unit, which specializes in complex and serial violent crimes, are participating in the broader investigation.
South Africa has high levels of violent crime and violence against women. A recent study found that three women were killed every day by intimate partners between 2020 and 2021.
The series of killings in Ekurhuleni has led to a national outcry over women's safety.
Authorities are still working to determine if the crimes are connected or if they involve a serial killer. Six of the women's bodies were discovered during a 10-day period earlier in September, adding to concerns that some of the killings could be linked.
The investigation continues as police examine the evidence and search for more clues.
Community members have expressed fear and concern over the rising number of murders.
The case has drawn attention to broader issues of gender-based violence in South Africa.
Police have not ruled out the possibility that more than one person is involved in the killings.
The public has been urged to remain vigilant. Police previously issued a warning for women to use caution in the area.
President Cyril Ramaphosa has called for a high-priority investigation into the killings and urged authorities to pursue those responsible.
Local authorities have increased police activity in areas where women's bodies have been discovered.
The families of the victims are seeking answers and justice for their loved ones.
As more information becomes available, authorities will continue to update the public on the investigation.