A murdered woman found in Villa Liza is not linked to the killings of eight other women currently under investigation in Gauteng.

This is according to Deputy National Commissioner for Policing Lieutenant General Tebello Mosikili, who briefed journalists outside the Boksburg Magistrate’s Court this morning (September 21).

The police released the victim’s name as Jabulile Ntimba. Her body was discovered partially dressed and face down by a jogger at about 06:00 on September 17.

Members of the Gauteng Murder and Robbery Unit arrested two women and a man over the weekend in connection with the killing.

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Mosikili said investigations indicate Ntimba’s murder could be linked to a love triangle, whereas the other eight murder cases involving women have not been linked to a serial killer.

“Investigations are continuing. We are still connecting the dots but at this stage cannot confirm that we are investigating a serial killer. Thorough investigation is needed,” she said.

The bodies of the eight other victims, found between July and September, include six women found in the Kempton Park and Olifantsfontein area and a woman found murdered in Kwa-Thema.

Mosikili said the police have increased visibility and ramped up awareness programmes, engaging with groups and organisations to educate community members about safety, hotspots and possible threats.

“All spheres of government need to join hands. Matters of by-law enforcement and service delivery are needed in SAPS’ efforts to prevent crime, thus creating a safe environment for every South African man and woman,” she said.

Before the briefing, national police spokesperson Colonel Athlenda Mathe and Nkosikhona Ndabandaba of March and March engaged the media outside the court on the importance of communities uniting in supporting and protecting each other.

Ndabandaba lauded police for addressing the killings of women with urgency but emphasised that communities cannot stand idly by.

“We must stand united in the protection of our brothers and sisters. We must be the eyes and ears of our communities, acting to prevent crime instead of reacting once a crime is committed.”

Acting National Commissioner Lieutenant General Puleng Dimpane said police are seized with all nine murder cases, with each receiving priority attention.

“We remain committed to ensuring that these investigations are pursued with the urgency and determination they require.

“Our investigators are following all available leads and are working tirelessly to bring those responsible to justice,” said Dimpane.

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