South African police have confirmed the death of Elizabeth Moselakgomo, a jogger who went missing last week. Her body was identified by relatives on Monday, after being discovered on Saturday east of Johannesburg. Moselakgomo is one of five women whose bodies have been found in the Kempton Park area, located east of Johannesburg. The bodies were reportedly discovered bruised and partially clothed.
Authorities have stated they are not currently linking the deaths to a serial killer but acknowledged that the "similarities are sufficiently concerning… to issue a public warning." Police have advised women in the Kempton Park area to avoid running or walking alone, especially in isolated locations.
South Africa faces significant challenges with gender-based violence, with UN Women reporting that the rate at which women are killed is five times higher than the global average. The discovery of these bodies has intensified fear and outrage among the public.
One arrest has been made in connection with the discovery of the first body, and the individual remains in police custody. A task team has been established by the police to investigate the murders. Tributes have poured in for Moselakgomo, who was known affectionately as "Tsontso." Social media posts have reflected the widespread anxiety and fear that women often experience in the country, with one user noting, "Women are not free if we have to calculate where, when and with whom we can walk, run or exist safely."
Fellow runners have expressed the sentiment of safety in numbers, with measures like varying running routes and choosing well-lit areas being common practices. Advocacy group Women for Change has voiced anger over the discoveries, questioning the effectiveness of protective services and highlighting concerns about the implementation of existing laws.
Moselakgomo's family has expressed gratitude for public support during the search for the mother of one, acknowledging her eight-year-old daughter for raising the alarm about her disappearance. The identities of the other discovered bodies are still pending.