Body of 10th Woman Found in South Africa as Killings Investigation Continues

South African police announced Saturday that the body of another woman had been discovered near Johannesburg, increasing to 10 the number of victims in a series of killings currently under investigation. Police had initially begun investigating in July and August after finding the bodies of three women within approximately 4.3 miles of each other in the Ekurhuleni municipality, east of Johannesburg.

The discovery of six additional bodies in Ekurhuleni over a 10-day period earlier this month heightened concerns that a serial perpetrator or perpetrators might be responsible.

Last week, two women were arrested and charged with murder in connection with the ninth body, which was found on September 17. According to police, the victim had been stabbed and her throat cut. Authorities have not linked the two arrested women to any of the other killings.

Provincial police commissioner Lt. Gen. Tommy Mthombeni stated on Saturday to the state broadcaster SABC that investigators believe the ninth killing may have been an isolated incident. However, he did not rule out the possibility that some of the other cases could be connected. While investigators have identified similarities in several of the killings, conclusive evidence linking them to the same individual or individuals has not yet been found.

Prior to Saturday's discovery, police reported that all nine victims were women in their 20s or 30s. Many were found naked or partially clothed in open areas near major roads. The Investigative Psychology Unit, which specializes in complex or serial violent crimes, is involved in the ongoing investigation.

Details regarding the 10th body, found early Saturday, were limited, and the victim has not yet been identified. The South African Police Service confirmed the discovery in a statement, noting that crime scene management and relevant personnel were on site.

South Africa contends with high rates of violent crime and significant levels of violence against women. The recent killings in Ekurhuleni have prompted a national outcry regarding women's safety.