South African authorities have found the body of a female runner who went missing last week. In addition, they discovered four more female bodies in the same area, all semi-naked and showing signs of bruising.
Foreign news agencies reported on 14 Sep 2026 that South African officials found the body of Elizabeth Moselakgomo, a 38-year-old runner and mother who disappeared last week, in the eastern area of Johannesburg. Her body showed severe injuries and her clothing was partially removed.
Her body is one of five female bodies found semi-naked with bruises in the Kempton Park area. The most recent body was discovered on Monday, about 25 kilometers away.
Police have set up a special task force to investigate these murders. Although it is not yet confirmed if this is a serial killing case, authorities acknowledge the similarities are concerning enough to issue a public warning, advising women to avoid walking or running alone. So far, one suspect connected to the first found body has been arrested.
The case has sparked nationwide anger and fear. Fellow runners and South Africans have mourned Moselakgomo, reflecting the harsh reality that women in South Africa cannot safely live, walk, or run outdoors without planning or grouping for protection.
The advocacy group Women for Change and civil society have criticized the effectiveness of law enforcement and police work in South Africa, believing that resolving this issue requires strong public pressure on the government.
South Africa is among the countries with the highest rates of gender-based violence worldwide. UN Women data indicates that the female homicide rate there is five times the global average.
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Source:bbc