South African Police Discover Body of 10th Woman Near Johannesburg

South African police have discovered the body of another woman in Thembisa, east of Johannesburg, bringing the total number of women whose bodies have been found in the area since mid-July to 10.

Police confirmed the discovery in Thembisa, Ekurhuleni, on Saturday, September 26, 2026. According to local media reports, the body was found in the morning. Authorities have not yet released further details about the victim.

Provincial police chief Tommy Mthombeni said the latest victim appeared to have been stoned to death. He added that a post-mortem examination would be conducted to determine the exact cause of death.

“We have put highly capable investigators on this case,” Mthombeni said, pledging that police would work to identify and arrest those responsible.

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa also acknowledged the discovery while campaigning ahead of upcoming local elections. He expressed sadness over the killing and concern about violence against women in the country.

Police are investigating whether the 10 killings are connected. Mthombeni said some of the cases have similarities, but there is currently no conclusive evidence that the same individual or group is responsible.

Three bodies were discovered in July and August within six kilometres of one another in Ekurhuleni. Earlier in September, six more bodies were found within a period of 10 days in the same area.

Before the latest discovery, all nine victims were reportedly women in their 20s or 30s, with several found completely or partially naked. Police have not yet confirmed the age of the 10th victim or the circumstances in which her body was found.

Two women have been charged in connection with the killing of the ninth victim, with police saying that case may have been related to a relationship dispute. Investigators have described that killing as an isolated incident, although they are still examining possible links among some of the other cases.

South Africa has long faced high levels of violence against women, and the recent discoveries have increased concerns among communities and activists about femicide and gender-based violence.