The family of 28-year-old Gracious Nkomo has identified her as the third woman whose body was discovered in the Kempton Park area on 10 September.
Nkomo’s body was found partially clothed along the R21 and was positively identified by her family at the Germiston Mortuary on Thursday.
Her identification comes as police intensify their investigation into a series of cases involving women whose bodies have been discovered in and around Kempton Park.
The South African Police Service (SAPS) has confirmed that Nkomo’s death is being investigated as murder.
Police have not publicly confirmed whether the cases are linked or identified any suspects in connection with the killings.
Acting National Police Commissioner Lieutenant General Puleng Dimpane said a multidisciplinary team of investigators was working around the clock to establish what happened to the victims 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 remains under intensified policing operations as investigators pursue leads into the murders.
The identification of Nkomo provides investigators and her family with another crucial piece of information as police work to establish the circumstances surrounding her death.
SAPS said investigations into Nkomo’s murder and the other cases remain ongoing.
Police have not disclosed further details about the circumstances of Nkomo’s death, pending the outcome of the investigation.
Anyone with information that could assist investigators is urged to contact the police.
The latest development comes as concern grows over the number of women found dead in the wider Ekurhuleni area in recent weeks.
