Police have intensified their investigation after discovering the bodies of four women in Kempton Park over two months, issuing a safety warning to local women.

The latest body was discovered on Saturday evening, adding to growing concern over a series of deaths that detectives say share several disturbing similarities.

SAPS national spokesperson Brigadier Athlenda Mathe said police are treating the cases with the utmost seriousness and have mobilised specialised resources to establish whether there is a connection between the incidents.

According to preliminary information gathered by investigators, the women were found partially clothed and with visible bruising.

The discovery sites are also located within the same general vicinity, particularly around Rhodesfield.

However, Mathe stressed that police have not confirmed that the deaths are linked to a serial killer.

“While investigations are still at an early stage, the similarities in the cases are concerning enough for SAPS to intensify its investigations and ensure that all possible links are thoroughly examined,” she said.

Task team established

Acting National Commissioner of SAPS Lieutenant General Puleng Dimpane directed Gauteng Provincial Commissioner Lieutenant General Tommy Mthombeni to establish a dedicated multidisciplinary task team to investigate the cases.

The team will bring together detectives from specialised units, including the Murder and Robbery Unit and the Investigative Psychology Unit, as well as other relevant disciplines.

Also read: Body of unidentified woman recovered from Kempton Park spruit

The investigation will be led by Gauteng Deputy Provincial Commissioner Major General Mbuso Khumalo, who has been tasked with ensuring that every possible investigative avenue is pursued.

Mathe said the priority is to establish exactly what happened to each of the women and determine whether the incidents are connected.

Safety advice issued

As the investigation continues, SAPS is urging women in and around Kempton Park, particularly in Rhodesfield, to remain vigilant.

Police advise women to avoid walking or running alone, especially in isolated areas, and to stay away from secluded locations where possible.

Residents are also encouraged to travel and exercise in groups and remain alert to their surroundings.

The police warning comes as detectives work to determine whether the similarities between the cases point to a common perpetrator or whether the deaths are unrelated.

Appeal for information

SAPS is appealing to residents, motorists, security personnel and other members of the community who may have witnessed suspicious activity in Rhodesfield to come forward.

Even information that may appear insignificant could assist investigators in piecing together the circumstances surrounding the deaths.

Anyone with information that could assist the investigation can contact Warrant Officer Elvis Manyike on 082 465 7249.

Information can also be provided anonymously through the MySAPS app.

Mathe said SAPS would continue to deploy specialised resources to the area as investigators work to establish the circumstances surrounding the deaths and identify those responsible.