A woman’s body has been found east of Johannesburg, where several deaths in recent months have raised fears of a potential serial killer.
South African authorities say the cases appear to be linked, but police have not confirmed whether they were carried out by the same person.
The latest victim was discovered on Tuesday in Kwa-Thema, about 34 kilometres from Kempton Park. Police said she was fully naked and her body was in an advanced stage of decomposition.
Another body was found on Monday in Olifantsontein.
The discoveries follow the death of 38-year-old Elizabeth “Tsontso” Moselakgomo, whose body was found on Saturday after she disappeared while jogging in Kempton Park.
The South African Police Service has warned women to exercise caution when jogging or undertaking other activities in the affected areas.
Police spokesperson Athlenda Mathe said the similarities between the cases were concerning enough to intensify investigations and issue a public warning.
President Cyril Ramaphosa has directed police to prioritise the investigations and urged the public to provide information that could help identify those responsible.
The developments have renewed concerns about violence against women in South Africa.
The country recorded 5,427 murders between April and July, according to the latest crime statistics.
The Commission for Gender Equality has called for safety audits in the affected areas, including assessments of lighting, surveillance, transport routes and police visibility.
