Police in Ekurhuleni, South Africa, are probing a string of murders and body discoveries, with 12 women killed in less than two months. The latest case involves 23-year-old Boitumelo Gift Mashita, who was shot and killed in Temong, Tembisa, while reportedly on her way to work. Her belongings were allegedly taken during a robbery. Authorities have identified Mashita's estranged husband as a person of interest.
Gauteng police spokesperson Brigadier Brenda Muridili stated that investigators were tracing Mashita's estranged husband when Midrand police informed them that his vehicle had been found within their policing precinct, with his body inside. Police believe the man may have ingested an unknown substance, and a post-mortem examination will determine the cause of death. Midrand police will register an inquest case into the circumstances surrounding his death.
The latest development follows the discovery of another woman's body near a railway line in Springs on Sunday. National police spokesperson Brigadier Athlenda Mathe said investigations into the other deaths and efforts to trace those responsible were continuing. Police have arrested a 36-year-old suspect in connection with the murder of a woman whose body was found at Mooifontein Cemetery in Tembisa on Saturday.
The suspect, arrested in Mohlabaneng village, Limpopo, is expected to appear in the Tembisa Magistrate's Court on a murder charge. Acting national commissioner Lieutenant-General Puleng Dimpane commended the multidisciplinary team involved in tracing and arresting the suspect, vowing to pursue perpetrators of murder and gender-based violence.
Crime expert Yusuf Abramjee emphasized the need for an urgent, coordinated response to the cases, cautioning against speculation that they involved a serial offender or single perpetrator. Abramjee urged investigators to cross-reference DNA, fingerprints, CCTV footage, cellphone records, and the movements of victims and suspects.
The Centre for the Study of Violence and Reconciliation (CSVR) noted that the deaths were occurring within a justice system that often failed to follow through after violence against women was reported. CSVR referred to its report, "Justice Denied, Silence Maintained," which found that women reporting violence were often met with disbelief and poor case handling.
Police are appealing to anyone with information to contact their local police station, Crime Stop on 08600 10111, or the MySAPS app. Authorities are working to properly resource the investigation, identify the women, and keep their families informed.
Key points
- 12 women have been killed in Ekurhuleni in less than two months.
- Police have arrested a 36-year-old suspect in connection with one of the murders.
- Authorities are urging anyone with information to come forward.
