President of South Africa urged swift action and accountability after authorities reported the discovery of further female corpses in areas surrounding Johannesburg.
Law enforcement officials said they were investigating the deaths and exploring all possible leads, including the possibility that the killings may be connected, but they emphasised that no definitive link to a serial killer has been established. Police said inquiries remain ongoing as investigators collect evidence and follow up on tips.
The presidential statement reiterated a commitment to bring perpetrators to justice and to support victims' families. The announcement came amid public concern and calls for a robust response from security services and government agencies tasked with tackling violence against women.
Police appealed to members of the public to come forward with information that might assist the investigation. Authorities said they would continue to conduct forensic examinations and other lines of inquiry as they work to determine the circumstances of each death and whether they are related.
The developments have renewed attention on broader questions about gender-based violence and public safety in South Africa, and officials said they would coordinate efforts across agencies while the criminal probes progress. The investigations are ongoing.