SAPS vows to find those behind Gauteng women’s deaths as fifth body is discovered

The South African Police Service (SAPS) has vowed to intensify its investigations into the deaths of women in Gauteng following the discovery of a fifth body and the positive identification of a woman whose disappearance had sparked concern.

Acting national police commissioner Lieutenant General Puleng Dimpane said police would leave no stone unturned in identifying, tracing and bringing to justice those responsible for the deaths.

The latest development came on Monday as investigators continued probing a number of cases involving the deaths of women in the Kempton Park area.

Dimpane also expressed her condolences to the family of 38-year-old Elizabeth “Tsontso” Moselakgomo, whose body was positively identified by her family at the Germiston mortuary on Monday.

“We extend our deepest sympathies to the family and loved ones of Elizabeth during this extremely painful time,” Dimpane said.

“The loss of a loved one under such circumstances is devastating, and we assure the family that the SAPS will do everything within its powers to establish exactly what happened to Elizabeth and to ensure that those responsible are held accountable.”

A multidisciplinary team comprising detectives and specialised policing resources has been directed to intensify the investigations.

According to police, the team is working around the clock to establish the circumstances surrounding each death, analyse evidence, identify possible links between cases and pursue all leads.

“We will not rest until we have established the truth. Where there is evidence linking individuals to these crimes, we will pursue them relentlessly and ensure that they face the full might of the law,” Dimpane said.

Police said one suspect had been arrested in connection with the discovery of the first body in July and remains in custody.

The SAPS has urged the public to allow investigators to follow all available leads as they work to establish whether the cases are linked.