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Residents of Kempton Park in South Africa have taken to the streets to protest against the rising killings of women in the area.
Over the past two months, police have discovered the bodies of nine women, raising concerns about the safety of women and children in the community.
The South African Police Service confirmed the discovery of a ninth woman’s body on Thursday morning.
While speculation about a possible serial killer has spread following the deaths, police have yet to establish a link between the cases.
Authorities have also warned the public against making unverified claims as investigations continue.
Residents are marching from the Kempton Park Civic Centre to the local police station, where they are expected to demand stronger action, increased police visibility and greater accountability from law enforcement authorities.
President Cyril Ramaphosa has declared the rising killings a national crisis and directed security agencies to prioritise investigations into the deaths.
South Africa has one of the world’s highest femicide rates. In 2022, women were killed at a rate of 12.2 per 100,000, nearly six times the global average, according to the UN Office on Drugs and Crime.
Following the discovery of the bodies, authorities have advised women in and around Kempton Park against walking or exercising alone, particularly in isolated areas.
They urged women to “avoid secluded spaces, remain vigilant and, where possible, travel or exercise in groups.”
