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[CRIME] · South Africa · 6 sources

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Ekurhuleni authorities investigate discovery of 11th female victim

Authorities in Ekurhuleni, east of Johannesburg, have discovered the body of an 11th woman, raising intense fears of a serial killer in South Africa. The latest victim was found by a private security company patrolling the Springs area on Sunday.

Since July, a series of killings has targeted women, primarily in their 20s and 30s. Many victims were found partially or fully unclothed near major roads or open spaces, with some showing signs of sexual assault. President Cyril Ramaphosa has declared the situation a “national crisis.”

Police have arrested a 36-year-old suspect in Tzaneen, Limpopo province, in connection with a recent killing. This brings the total number of individuals in police custody related to the recent spate of killings to four. While investigators have noted similarities in the methods used in some cases, they have not yet established a definitive link between all the deaths.

The surge in violence has become a significant political issue ahead of local elections in November, with parties debating the government's ability to manage public safety and gender-based violence.

Entities

Cyril Ramaphosa · Ekurhuleni · Ekurhuleni Municipality · South Africa · South African Police Service · Springs · Tommy Mthombeni · Tzaneen

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