The South African Council of Churches (SACC) is calling for action following the discovery of six women's bodies in Gauteng over the last two months. The most recent body was found in Springs on the morning of September 15, 2026. Previous discoveries occurred in Kempton Park and Olifantsfontein.
The SACC stated that these deaths reflect a national moral collapse and a lack of governance systems to protect women. The organization noted that these incidents continue despite President Cyril Ramaphosa declaring gender-based violence and femicide a national disaster less than a year ago.
While one suspect is in custody for the first murder, the SACC reported that no arrests have been made in the other cases. Police have not yet determined if the deaths are linked to one perpetrator or several. The council expressed condolences to the families of the deceased, including Elizabeth “Tsontso” Moselakgomo, and those waiting for the formal identification of four other women.
SourcesSouthern African Catholic Bishops' ConferenceArchdiocese of Pretoria