IMC approves emergency strategy after nine women found dead in Ekurhuleni
Police step up operations and elevate the investigation unit following the discovery of bodies in Kempton Park, Kwa-Thema and Tembisa.
The Inter-Ministerial Committee on Gender-Based Violence and Femicide has approved a Comprehensive Emergency Strategy covering prevention, law enforcement and victim support after nine women’s bodies were discovered in Ekurhuleni.
The committee met on September 17 with Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi, Ekurhuleni Mayor Nkosindiphile Xhakaza and representatives of Johannesburg and Tshwane to receive a briefing from the National Joint Operational and Intelligence Structure.
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The strategy also addresses the deaths of a woman found in Tlhabane in the North West and another in Mookgopong in Limpopo.
A specialised investigation team has been elevated to handle the cases, coordinated by the Deputy National Commissioner for Detective Services.
One of the nine bodies found in Ekurhuleni remains unidentified, with no missing-person report filed. Residents in Kempton Park, Kwa-Thema and Tembisa have been requested to check on female relatives and report any missing person immediately. Police reminded the public that there is no 24-hour waiting period to report a missing person.
Members of the public with information are asked to contact Crime Stop on 08600 10111 rather than sharing unverified claims, graphic images or victim details on social media, which can cause trauma to families and compromise investigations.
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Under Operation Shanela, police visibility has been increased alongside metro police officers. Enforcement efforts will target illegal liquor and drug trade.
The City of Ekurhuleni will step up grass cutting, debushing and clearing of illegal dumping sites, while the Love Your Street campaign is being redirected to mobilise communities. Local businesses have been requested to ensure lighting and security systems remain operational and to supply footage to investigators when requested.
The Department of Social Development has commenced psychosocial support for the families of identified victims.
The committee condemned a Sandton incident where a man was filmed threatening women who rejected him, calling on the suspect to hand himself over to law enforcement.
It also commended the arrest of a suspect in connection with the alleged rape of a teenager in an Uber.
Members of the public can report abuse or seek assistance through the Gender-Based Violence Command Centre on 0800 428 428, the Gauteng e-Panic service, or Crime Stop on 08600 10111.
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