The net is tightening around the perpetrators responsible for the wave of terror in Ekurhuleni. Acting Police Minister Firoz Cachalia has officially brought in the heavy hitters to lead the investigation into the murders of nine women, signaling a massive ramp-up in urgency from the national government.
In a media briefing held yesterday, Minister Cachalia announced that the investigation is being elevated to a national priority. The probe will now be led by the divisional commissioner for detective and forensic services, Lt-Gen Hilda Sinthumule, who will be supported by two of the country's most formidable law enforcement figures: Crime Intelligence head Lt-Gen Dumisani Khumalo and KwaZulu-Natal police commissioner Lt-Gen Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi.
Three Suspects in Custody
There has been a significant breakthrough in the case: three suspects have been taken into custody for questioning. While the investigation is ongoing, Minister Cachalia expressed confidence in the team’s ability to crack the case, noting that the national office is now providing all necessary detective resources to ensure these crimes are brought to justice.
“I am confident from the report that I have received that the investigation will be concluded successfully,” Cachalia stated.
Identifying the Victims
Police have made strides in identifying the victims whose lives were tragically cut short. Out of the nine women found across Ekurhuleni over the past two months, seven have now been positively identified. While police are currently in the process of notifying the family of the seventh victim, the following names have been released to the public:
- Myobo Nomfesane
- Busisiwe Mahlangu
- Itumeleng Kekana
- Gracious Nkomo
- Elizabeth “Tsontso” Moselakgomo
- Dineo Motapane
A Call for Community Vigilance
The Inter-Ministerial Committee on Gender-Based Violence and Femicide (GBV&F) is also taking direct action to prevent further incidents. Minister in the Presidency for Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities, Sindisiwe Chikunga, outlined a multi-pronged approach to secure public spaces.
The City of Ekurhuleni has been tasked with an immediate cleanup operation, which includes cutting grass, clearing bush, and removing illegal dumping sites where criminals often hide. Furthermore, the government is revitalizing the "Love Your Street" campaign, urging citizens to take ownership of their neighborhood safety.
Minister Chikunga also issued a direct challenge to the business sector, stating that owners of shopping centers, entertainment venues, and transport hubs must ensure that their security infrastructure—including lighting, surveillance systems, and emergency protocols—is fully operational.
“We remain concerned that South Africa continues to face high levels of gender-based violence and femicide despite stronger legislation,” Chikunga said, emphasizing that systemic changes must be matched by community vigilance.
Can You Help?
The police are urging anyone with information—no matter how small—to come forward. Tips can be provided anonymously via the following channels:
- Contact W/O Elvis Manyike: 082-465-7249
- Crime Stop Number: 08600-10111
