Family identifies 28-year-old Gracious Nkomo as third woman found in Kempton Park

The family of 28-year-old Gracious Nkomo has identified her as the third woman whose body was found along the R21 in Kempton Park. Her body was discovered after a series of deaths in the area that have prompted intensified police activity.

Discovery and identification

SAPS police spokesperson Athlenda Mathe said Nkomo was one of several women whose bodies were found in the Kempton Park area on September 10, 2026. Mathe said Nkomo’s body was discovered partially clothed, and that her family positively identified her at the Germiston Mortuary on Thursday.

Deaths across Ekurhuleni raise concerns

The identification of Nkomo came the same day another woman’s body was found in Ekurhuleni, which authorities said raised the total number of bodies to nine. Gauteng acting provincial commissioner Major General Fred Kekana told the media the latest body was found in Dawn Park, and that preliminary investigations indicated the woman’s remains had been dumped there.

Multidisciplinary investigation under way

Acting National Commissioner of SAPS, Lieutenant General Puleng Dimpane, said a multidisciplinary team of investigators was working to establish what happened to the victims and to 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.”

Police response

SAPS said investigations into the murders remain ongoing and that policing operations in Kempton Park have been intensified. Police have urged anyone with information that could assist investigators to come forward.

Reporting adapted from IOL.