South African police have issued a fresh safety warning to women after another woman was found dead near Johannesburg.
The latest discovery has brought the number of women found dead in the area to seven in about two months.
The cases have caused fear among residents.
They have also raised concerns about the possible presence of a serial killer.
However, police have stressed that they have not established that the deaths were caused by the same person.
Latest Body Found in Kwa-Thema
Police discovered the latest body on Tuesday in Kwa-Thema.
The area is about 34 kilometres from Kempton Park.
According to authorities, the woman was found naked.
Her body was also badly decomposed.
The discovery came only a day after another body was found in Olifantsontein.
Investigators are now examining the cases to determine whether there is a connection.
Police spokesperson Athlenda Mathe said the similarities between some of the cases were concerning.
She said the situation was serious enough for police to warn the public.
Police Warn Women to Be Careful
The South African Police Service (SAPS) has urged women to take extra care in the affected areas.
Women who jog or exercise alone have been advised to remain particularly alert.
Police are also stepping up their investigations.
Authorities are working to establish the circumstances surrounding each death.
At this stage, however, there is no official confirmation of a serial killer.
Jogger’s Death Deepens Community Fears
The latest warning follows the death of 38-year-old Elizabeth “Tsontso” Moselakgomo.
Moselakgomo disappeared in Kempton Park last week.
She had reportedly gone out jogging before she went missing.
Her disappearance triggered a search involving police and members of the local community.
Her body was found on Saturday.
The discovery increased fears among residents who are already worried about the recent deaths.
Ramaphosa Demands Urgent Action
President Cyril Ramaphosa has ordered police authorities to give the murder investigations priority.
He said security agencies must pursue every available lead.
Ramaphosa also called on citizens to share information that could assist investigators.
According to the president, cooperation between communities and law enforcement will be critical.
The aim is to identify those responsible and prevent further attacks.
South Africa’s Wider Crime Challenge
The latest deaths have also renewed debate about violent crime in South Africa.
The country continues to record a high number of murders.
Official figures show that 5,427 murders were recorded between April and July.
That works out at roughly 45 killings each day.
Violence against women remains another major concern.
The UN agency responsible for gender equality has identified South Africa as one of the countries with a particularly high femicide rate.
Gender Equality Commission Calls for Action
A 2022 South African study found that more than 35 percent of adult women had experienced physical or sexual violence.
The figures have strengthened calls for better protection for women.
The Commission for Gender Equality wants authorities to carry out a safety audit in the affected communities.
The review would involve police and local authorities.
Transport officials and community safety groups would also take part.
The commission wants officials to examine street lighting, surveillance and public transport routes.
Neglected areas and emergency response systems should also be reviewed.
Commission spokesperson Javu Baloyi said authorities must act before more lives are lost.
“Women should not have to be killed before an area receives heightened attention,” Baloyi said.
Police investigations remain ongoing.
Authorities are urging anyone with useful information to come forward.
Residents have also been advised to remain vigilant while investigators work to establish whether the cases are connected.
