Kempton Park women warned after four bodies found
Women living near Rhodesfield in Kempton Park have been urged to take extra precautions after police discovered the bodies of four women in the area within a period of about two months.
The latest discovery was made on Saturday evening, raising further concern among investigators who are examining possible similarities between the cases.
According to preliminary information, the women were found partially undressed and had visible bruising.
Police have also noted that the locations where the bodies were discovered are situated within the same general area.
SAPS national police spokesperson Athlenda Mathe said the similarities have prompted police to issue a warning to women while investigators work to establish whether the cases are connected.
Police are advising women to avoid walking or running alone, especially in areas where there are few people around. Women have also been encouraged to stay away from secluded locations and, where possible, move around or exercise in groups.
Although the circumstances surrounding the deaths have raised questions about a possible connection, SAPS has not confirmed that a serial killer is operating in the area.
Mathe stressed that investigators are still working to establish the facts and determine whether the cases are linked.
“At this stage, we are not confirming that these deaths are linked to a serial killer,” Mathe said.
However, the similarities identified by detectives have been serious enough for police to take preventative action and increase investigative resources in the area.
“We are taking these incidents extremely seriously, and we are not waiting for another incident before taking decisive action,” Mathe said.
A dedicated multidisciplinary team has been set up to investigate the deaths.
The team, led by Gauteng Deputy Provincial Commissioner Mbuso Khumalo, comprises of detectives from specialised units, including the Murder and Robbery Unit.
People who regularly travel through Rhodesfield and surrounding areas are being asked to report anything they may have seen that could assist investigators.
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