South African police are investigating the deaths of nine women whose bodies were discovered across the Ekurhuleni area, east of Johannesburg, over a period of about two months.

The victims were women aged between their 20s and late 30s. Several of the bodies were reportedly found naked or partially clothed and showed signs of injuries, prompting investigators to examine whether the cases could be connected.

The discovery of a ninth body on September 17 intensified the investigation. The unidentified woman, believed to be around 30 years old, was found near a construction site in the Ekurhuleni area. Police said she appeared to have suffered serious injuries, including an apparent stab wound.

Authorities have stressed, however, that they have not confirmed that a serial killer is responsible. Gauteng provincial police commissioner Fred Kekana said investigators are considering multiple possibilities, including separate perpetrators or different suspects. Detectives are comparing evidence, timelines, locations, victim profiles and the circumstances surrounding each death.

One of the victims was identified as 38-year-old Elizabeth “Tsontso” Moselakgomo, who disappeared after leaving home for her regular afternoon run. Her body was discovered several days later.

The cases have drawn national attention amid South Africa’s longstanding problem with violence against women. The deaths have also prompted calls for stronger investigations and greater public safety.

By September 20, South African authorities said eight of the nine victims had been identified, while three persons of interest had been brought in for questioning. Police continued to investigate whether the killings were connected.

Authorities have appealed to members of the public to provide information that could help investigators establish what happened to the victims and determine whether the cases are linked.

Source: Sky News – Deaths of nine women in South Africa could be ‘linked to serial killer’