The South African Police Service (SAPS) has called for caution in and around Rhodesfield, Kempton Park, after the bodies of four women were discovered within the same vicinity over a period of approximately two months. The latest body was found on Saturday evening, and detectives say initial information points to worrying similarities in the circumstances surrounding the deaths.
Investigations stepped up
Acting National Commissioner Lieutenant General Puleng Dimpane has ordered the Gauteng Provincial Commissioner to immediately form a dedicated, multidisciplinary task team to probe the cases and establish whether the incidents are connected. The team will be led by Gauteng Deputy Provincial Commissioner Major General Mbuso Khumalo and will include specialists from the Murder and Robbery Unit and the Investigative Psychology Unit, among other disciplines.
The police statement said the bodies were found half‑naked and with visible bruising, and that the discovery sites were located within the same area. Detectives are pursuing a range of lines of inquiry as they work to identify the victims and trace those responsible.
“While investigations are still underway and SAPS has not, at this stage, confirmed that the deaths are linked to a serial killer, the similarities are sufficiently concerning for the police to issue a public warning and intensify investigations.”
Public safety advisory
In the statement, SAPS urged women in and around Kempton Park not to walk or run alone, particularly in isolated areas. Authorities advised avoiding secluded spaces, remaining vigilant and, where possible, travelling or exercising in groups. The police emphasised that the safety of women is a priority and said decisive action will be taken.
- Do not walk or jog alone in isolated areas, especially after dark.
- Where possible, travel in groups or let someone know your route and expected return time.
- Avoid secluded or poorly lit spaces; choose routes with more people and lighting.
- Report any suspicious behaviour or information immediately to local SAPS stations.
What police have said and next steps
The task team will combine detectives from specialised units with investigative psychology and other resources to urgently advance enquiries. SAPS appealed to residents, motorists and security personnel with any information to come forward to assist the investigation.
Police have not released the identities of the victims or further forensic details pending formal identification and preservation of the investigation. They also did not confirm arrests in relation to the recent discovery.
| Fact | Detail |
|---|---|
| Number of bodies discovered | 4 |
| Location | Rhodesfield, Kempton Park (Gauteng) |
| Timeframe | Approximately two months |
| Task team lead | Major General Mbuso Khumalo |
Local impact and context
The discovery of multiple bodies in a concentrated area has understandably raised alarm among residents of Kempton Park. Rhodesfield is a busy node near the R21 corridor and OR Tambo International Airport; while movement in the area is normally high, isolated pockets and informal routes can be less secure, particularly at night.
Local community groups and private security companies often play a role in neighbourhood patrols and communication. SAPS has specifically appealed for information from motorists and security personnel who might have seen or recorded anything unusual in the vicinity during the relevant period.
Members of the public with information are urged to contact their nearest police station, or to share tips through official SAPS channels. Anyone who believes they may be at immediate risk should call emergency services without delay.
Authorities have reiterated that while investigators have noted concerning patterns, no formal link has been confirmed between the deaths. The multidisciplinary approach aims to accelerate identification, preserve forensic integrity and ensure a wide range of investigative tools are brought to bear.
As the probe continues, police said they will provide updates when new, verified information is available.
For emergencies or to report information: contact your nearest SAPS station or the emergency number.
