By Mapaballo Borotho
- A fifth body has been discovered under a bridge in Olifantsfontein, near Kempton Park east of Johannesburg, as police investigate a series of deaths
- The latest discovery comes after four other women were found dead between July and September, with police acknowledging similarities in some of the cases.
- Acting Gauteng Police Commissioner Fred Kekana says it is too early to conclude that the cases are linked or involve a single perpetrator.
A fifth woman’s body has been found under a bridge in Olifantsfontein, near Kempton Park on Monday, 14 September 2026.
The gruesome discovery has added to fears in a community already gripped by concern after four women were found dead in the vicinity.
Although the South African Police Service (SAPS) has not confirmed that a serial killer is on the loose or whether the cases are linked, there have been reports that the perpetrator or perpetrators may have used a similar modus operandi.
Acting Gauteng Police Commissioner Fred Kekana confirmed that police have only made one arrest in connection with the cases.
“While there are similarities in some of the circumstances surrounding the cases, it would be premature at this stage to conclude that the four cases are linked or that they involve one perpetrator. Our responsibility is to establish the facts through evidence,” said Kekana.
Identification of the four dead women
The first body, that of a 37-year-old woman, was discovered near the R21 on 15 July 2026. She was found naked and had been restrained with cable ties.
“In this particular case, our investigators have already made progress, and a suspect is currently in custody. The suspect was arrested on 17 July 2026. The investigation into this matter is continuing,” said Kekana.
The second body, that of a 32-year-old woman, was discovered near the R21 on 24 August 2026. She was also found partially clothed.
The third body, that of an unidentified woman, was discovered on 10 September 2026. The body was in an advanced state of decomposition and was found naked.
“At this stage, we have not yet been able to formally establish her identity. The identification process is continuing.”
The fourth body, that of a 38-year-old woman, was discovered on 12 September 2026 in Rhodesfield, at the back of a hotel in the area.
The woman was wearing sports clothing and was found partially clothed.
Her identity is still subject to formal confirmation by the family through the mortuary identification process.
Meanwhile, police are believed to be making their way to the scene where a fifth body was discovered as investigations get underway.
Details surrounding the latest discovery, including the woman’s identity and the circumstances of her death, have not yet been confirmed.
This is a developing story. For more updates, follow the story on @Kaya News on X as it unfolds.
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