South Africans rally after nine women killed near Johannesburg

Crime

Global Banking & Finance Review

Police in Ekurhuleni, east of Johannesburg, have found the bodies of nine women over the past two months, most aged in their 20s and 30s, and some showing signs of sexual assault; authorities are investigating whether the killings are linked. The discovery prompted memorial runs and protests, including an event for runner Elizabeth Moselakgomo, and renewed national scrutiny after gender-based violence was declared a national disaster in 2025. President Cyril Ramaphosa pledged thorough investigations, while advocacy groups and critics highlighted weakened policing, low murder-solve rates and concerns about safety advice shifting responsibility onto women.

Nine women were found dead, triggering national protests and investigations