Gracious Nkomo has been identified as the woman whose body was discovered along the R21 in Kempton Park.
The family of the 28-year-old made a positive identification at the Germiston Mortuary on Thursday, police confirmed. Nkomo’s missing-person posters had circulated widely on social media before her body was found.
Police said Nkomo—who was found partially clothed on 10 September—is one of nine women whose bodies have been discovered in Ekurhuleni over the past two months.
Police continue to investigate the murder and related cases
Police spokesperson Athlenda Mathe said the South African Police Service continues to investigate the murder of Nkomo, as well as the other cases in which women’s bodies have been found in the area.
Acting national police commissioner Lieutenant General Puleng Dimpane said police were making progress, with a multidisciplinary team of investigators working around the clock to determine the circumstances surrounding the murders and identify those responsible.
“We extend our deepest condolences to the family and loved ones of Gracious Nkomo during this extremely difficult time,” Dimpane said.
“Our investigators remain seized with these cases, and we will continue to pursue every available lead to ensure that those responsible for these murders are brought to justice.”
Kempton Park under lockdown as operations continue
Meanwhile, Kempton Park has been placed under lockdown, with law enforcement agencies in Gauteng and other provinces guarding the area while they conduct operations as part of the ongoing investigations.
