The South African Federation of Trade Unions (SAFTU) is horrified by the discovery today of yet another woman’s body in Springs, Ekurhuleni. Police say the body was found in an open veld near Rhokana Road. This reportedly brings to 11 the number of women whose bodies have been discovered in Ekurhuleni in recent weeks.
The fundamental question confronting South Africa is terrifying: are we dealing with a serial killer or killers operating in Ekurhuleni, or are we witnessing what has become an almost “normal” day in an extraordinarily violent society?
Police have so far said that they cannot confirm the existence of a serial killer, although they have also explicitly stated that this possibility cannot be ruled out. Investigators have identified similarities between some of the cases, while forensic investigations are examining possible links.
But there is another statistic that should shake this country to its foundations.
According to the latest SAPS quarterly crime statistics, covering 1 April to 30 June 2026, 5,427 people were murdered in just three months. That translates into approximately 60 murders every single day.
Think about what that means. Every 24 hours, roughly 60 South Africans are murdered. Every hour, on average, more than two people lose their lives violently.
So when another body is discovered in a veld, alongside a road, in a township or in one of our communities, we must resist becoming numb. These are not statistics. They are workers, mothers, fathers, daughters, sons, sisters, brothers and friends. Every murdered person leaves behind a family condemned to grief and unanswered questions.
The concentration of murdered women in Ekurhuleni nevertheless demands a specific and urgent response. These cases cannot simply disappear into South Africa’s enormous national murder statistics. Police must establish urgently whether these killings are connected, whether one perpetrator or several perpetrators are responsible, and whether women in particular areas face an identifiable continuing threat. The investigation must be properly resourced with detectives, forensic specialists, crime intelligence and investigative psychology.
SAFTU is particularly alarmed by the gendered character of these killings. Reports indicate that several victims were found naked or partially clothed and that some showed signs of sexual violence. This takes place against the background of South Africa’s wider epidemic of violence against women.
At the same time, we must confront the wider national emergency. The latest murder figures may represent a year-on-year decline, but 5,427 murders in three months cannot possibly be celebrated as success. A country in which around 60 people are murdered every day remains a country experiencing a profound crisis of violence.
SAFTU calls for the Ekurhuleni investigation to be treated as a national priority. We demand maximum police visibility in affected communities, rapid forensic processing of evidence, stronger protection for women and vulnerable people, and regular public briefings so that communities know what authorities have established without compromising investigations.
Above all, South Africa must refuse to normalise murder.
Sixty murders a day cannot become an acceptable rhythm of national life. Eleven women found dead in one municipality cannot become another passing headline.
Whether the Ekurhuleni killings ultimately prove to be the work of a serial killer, several perpetrators, or unrelated criminals, eleven dead women and thousands of murdered South Africans demand action.
SAFTU extends its deepest condolences and solidarity to every family that has lost a loved one. Every victim had a name. Every victim had dreams. Every victim had the right to live.
A statement was issued on behalf of SAFTU by the General Secretary, Zwelinzima Vavi.
For media inquiries, contact the National Spokesperson at
Newton Masuku
newtonm@saftu.org.za
0661682157
Media Officer
Asive Dyani
0719019564
