South Africa Finds 7th Woman's Body, Intensifies Probe as Serial Killer Fears Grow
Updated
Updated · CBS New York · Sep 15
South Africa Finds 7th Woman's Body, Intensifies Probe as Serial Killer Fears Grow
3 articles · Updated · CBS New York · Sep 15
Summary
A seventh woman's body was found Tuesday in Kwa-Thema, east of Johannesburg, after six other female victims were discovered in the same area over the past two months.
Police said the cases show troubling similarities but have not confirmed a serial killer; SAPS warned women to be cautious while jogging and other outdoor activities and set up a multidisciplinary investigation.
President Cyril Ramaphosa ordered police to prioritize the murders, while acting police minister Firoz Cachalia said the possibility that women are being targeted demands urgent action.
The latest discovery followed bodies found Monday in Olifantsontein and Saturday in Kempton Park, where 38-year-old Elizabeth Moselakgomo was found after a social media search campaign.
The killings have renewed focus on South Africa's violence against women: the country logged 5,427 murders from April to July, and rights groups say femicide rates remain among the world's highest.