South African police discover body of 10th woman near Johannesburg

South African police confirmed the discovery of a womans body in Thembisa, part of the Ekurhuleni municipality east of Johannesburg, on Saturday morning, bringing the tally of female bodies found near the city since mid-July to 10. Authorities provided few immediate details about the latest case and said a post-mortem examination would establish the cause of death.

Provincial police chief Tommy Mthombeni told reporters the newest victim appeared to have been stoned, and that specialised investigators have been assigned to the matter. Police are examining whether the deaths are linked but have so far not announced conclusive evidence that a single person or group is responsible.

The wave of discoveries has drawn national attention. President Cyril Ramaphosa acknowledged the tenth body while campaigning ahead of local elections, saying the series of deaths is a source of national sorrow and reflecting broader concerns about violence against women in the country.

Police notes and earlier findings show patterns that have worried communities: three bodies were found in July and August within about six kilometres of one another in Ekurhuleni, and six further bodies were discovered over 10 days earlier this month in the same municipality. Prior to the most recent discovery, the victims were reported to be in their 20s or 30s and several had been found partially or fully unclothed. In one earlier case from mid-July, a woman was discovered naked and restrained with cable ties; a boyfriend was arrested then, but no charges were filed. Two women have been charged in connection with the ninth body found, and police said that killing may have stemmed from a relationship-related matter.