- Elizabeth Moselakgomo, a 38-year-old mother and keen runner, went for her usual jog on September 9 and never returned, prompting her 8-year-old daughter to raise the alarm.
- Five days later, Moselakgomo's half-naked body was discovered, showing signs of severe beating.
- Police have reported that nine women have been found slain in the same area over a few weeks, with most having been sexually assaulted.
- In response to the murders, police have warned women to be vigilant and avoid walking or running alone, which has drawn significant backlash.
- President Cyril Ramaphosa has promised that 'no stone will be left unturned' in the search for the perpetrator(s).
- Protests have erupted in Kempton Park and Cape Town, with local running clubs holding memorial runs in honor of the victims.
- A ninth body was found in Dawn Park, Boksburg, intensifying concerns over violence against women.
- Police are investigating whether the murders are linked to one or multiple perpetrators.
- South Africa has one of the highest rates of gender-based violence globally, with over 100 rape cases reported and approximately 15 women killed daily.
- The government declared gender-based violence and femicide a national disaster in November 2025, but many believe insufficient action has been taken since.
- Critics argue that the government's response has been inadequate, with calls for more forensic facilities and shelters for survivors.
South Africa is facing a severe femicide crisis as nine women, including 38-year-old Elizabeth Moselakgomo, have been found dead in Ekurhuleni, raising fears of a potential serial killer.1245
Moselakgomo, a mother and avid runner, disappeared on September 9, with her body discovered three days later, half-naked and severely beaten.
“Women in South Africa continue to be hunted and denied the most basic right to life and security,” said Shenilla Mohamed, Amnesty International's South Africa Director.
The police have warned women to be “vigilant” and avoid walking or running alone, a stance that has drawn criticism from activists who argue that the responsibility should lie with law enforcement to ensure safety.67
“You are basically telling us to adjust our lives to perpetrators,” said Princess Eurika Mogane, a commissioner at South Africa’s Commission for Gender Equality.
The government declared gender-based violence a national disaster in 2025, yet many feel insufficient action has been taken.
“The declaration is there. But what progress has there been?” Mogane questioned, highlighting the need for more resources to protect women.
Protests have erupted in response to the killings, with women across the country demanding action and accountability from the government.910
“This is a war. It feels like individuals are being hunted,” Mogane added, emphasizing the urgency of the crisis.
The National Shelter Movement of South Africa reports a surge in women seeking help, indicating a broader societal issue of normalizing violence against women.
“These are not isolated incidents,” the organization stated, reflecting the deep-rooted challenges facing women in the country.
“President Cyril Ramaphosa has promised 'no stone will be left unturned' in the hunt for the perpetrator(s), but critics say the government has not done enough since declaring gender-based violence a national disaster in 2025. Police are investigating whether one or multiple perpetrators are behind the killings, with no links established so far.”
npr.org
