The lives of many women living in Ekurhuleni have drastically changed following the brutal killings of nine women.  

For many women, simple tasks like going to the shop or meeting friends have been put on hold as they fear they may become the next victim. 

Several women spoke to Caxton Network News on condition of anonymity. 

A 35-year-old mother of two says she has not left her home since Saturday. 

“Every time I look at my phone, there is a notification on social media about more bodies being found,” she says. 

Scared 

“I am a single mother and I run a business. I have not left my home to go out or to buy stock for my business. I am really scared.” 

She adds that her children are collected for school via scholar transport. 

“Once my children leave, I ensure my home is locked,” she says.  

“I feel like I can no longer trust anyone and that I have been robbed of my freedom.” 

The resident adds that there is visible police presence in the area. 

“It is comforting that police are on the ground, but the situation remains terrifying,” she adds. 

Routines altered amid safety concerns 

Another resident says her daily life changed overnight.

“I stopped leaving my house and meeting my friends at night because I am afraid I might become a victim,” says the 56-year-old resident.  

“As women, it is unfair for us to live like this in fear.” 

She adds that she only visits a nearby shop during the day and relies on her children to accompany her to church. 

“I no longer use e-hailing services because I don’t know who to trust,” she says. 

Impact on daily transport and work 

A hairdresser who uses public transport says daily travel feels risky. 

“Before I leave my home, I notify my family about my movements for the day,” she says. 

“When I walk to get a taxi to my salon, I am constantly watching my back because I am afraid. Most of the women I have spoken to share the same feelings.” 

The resident adds that her business has been impacted. 

“I used to provide a mobile service visiting clients at home, but I have stopped after these killings,” she says. 

“Before, I felt free to walk around, but after the killings, I have this feeling of uneasiness,” she adds. 

“Knowing that whoever is behind these murders is walking the streets is even more frightening.” 

She says that her prayer is for the victims to receive justice. 

In a statement, the acting national commissioner of the SAPS, Lieutenant General Puleng Dimpane, said that investigations are progressing, with a multidisciplinary team of investigators working to establish the circumstances surrounding the murders and identify those responsible. 

Breaking news at your fingertips… Follow Caxton Network News on Facebook and join our WhatsApp channel.

Nuus wat saakmaak. Volg Caxton Netwerk-nuus op Facebook en sluit aan by ons WhatsApp-kanaal.