The discovery of nine women’s bodies near Johannesburg over the past two months has raised concern about violence against women in South Africa.
The first body was found on July 17. Police said a ninth woman’s body was discovered on Wednesday.
However, investigators have not established that all of the cases are connected.
Africanews, citing AP, reported that authorities are investigating the deaths.
Police investigate possible links
The women were aged between 20 and 38, according to police.
The first five bodies were found in Kempton Park, east of Johannesburg.
More recent discoveries were made in Olifantsfontein and Kwa-Thema.
Police said the bodies had some similarities. However, officials have urged the public not to assume that one person was responsible for all the deaths.
Investigators are now examining whether any of the cases are connected.
Victims identified
One of the victims was identified as 38-year-old runner Elizabeth “Tsontso” Moselakgomo.
Her family reported her missing after she failed to return from an afternoon run.
She was found dead several days later.
Police also said a suspect believed to have been the boyfriend of another victim was arrested. He remains in custody.
The youngest victim was 20 years old.
Concern over violence against women
The discoveries have renewed concern about violence against women in South Africa.
According to the latest crime figures cited by Africanews, South Africa recorded 5,427 murders between April and July this year.
That equals an average of around 45 killings per day.
Meanwhile, the deaths of the nine women have prompted calls for greater attention to women’s safety.
Police continue to investigate the cases and whether any of them are linked.