By Mapaballo Borotho
- Police have offered a R400,000 reward for information that could assist in the investigation into the deaths of eight women in Ekurhuleni.
- Acting Police Minister Firoz Cachalia says the rate at which the bodies have been discovered is deeply disturbing, while investigators work to establish whether the cases are connected.
- Police have urged the public to come forward with credible information and warned against spreading unverified claims or making accusations without evidence.
The South African Police Service (SAPS) has offered a R400,000 reward for information that could assist investigators in identifying and arresting those responsible for the deaths of eight women whose bodies have been discovered across Ekurhuleni.
The latest developments follow the discovery of an eighth woman’s body in the Olifantsfontein area. Police have confirmed that the body was found in the Clayville River, opposite Thembisa Mall.
Only two of the eight victims have been identified so far.
Police have also confirmed that one person has been arrested in connection with one of the cases.
Cachalia concerned over deaths
Acting Police Minister Firoz Cachalia has expressed deep concern following the discovery of the bodies of the women in the Ekurhuleni area.
He says the rate at which the bodies are being found is deeply disturbing.
“While the investigation must establish whether these cases are linked, the possibility that a perpetrator or perpetrators may be targeting women demands our urgent and determined attention. A multidisciplinary investigation has been established to examine possible links between the cases, identify those responsible and bring them to justice.”
He assured the public that SAPS members will continue working with communities and other stakeholders to identify risks, strengthen policing responses and ensure that credible information is acted upon.
“We appeal to anyone with information that may assist the investigation to come forward through the appropriate police channels. We also urge the public not to circulate unverified information or make accusations without evidence. Our thoughts remain with the families of the deceased during this deeply painful time,” said Minister Cachalia.
Investigators are continuing to establish the circumstances surrounding each death and whether there are links between the cases.
Police have not confirmed that the eight deaths were committed by the same person or group, and have urged the public to allow the investigation to establish the facts
READ NEXT:
