Ramaphosa orders urgent investigation into Kempton Park women killings

President Cyril Ramaphosa has ordered law enforcement authorities to make the recent killings of women in and around Kempton Park a priority, as fear grows among communities in the Gauteng area.

The President said he had been briefed on the investigation by Police Minister and Acting National Police Commissioner, and directed authorities to pursue every possible lead to identify those responsible. The killings have unsettled local communities, with Ramaphosa acknowledging the uncertainty and fear the incidents have created, particularly among women.

In an official statement from the Presidency, Ramaphosa said the government shared the concerns being raised by South Africans following the deaths.

He also extended his condolences to the families and communities affected by the killings. According to the President, law enforcement teams are working to establish exactly what happened while also taking steps to protect communities and ensure that those responsible face justice.

The investigation will also rely on information from members of the public. Ramaphosa urged anyone who may know something about the incidents to come forward. The appeal also extends to people who have missing relatives or friends who may potentially be connected to the investigation.

‘I have directed that these cases be prioritised and that no stone be left unturned in bringing those responsible to justice.’

– President Cyril Ramaphosa

Anyone with information is asked to contact Warrant Officer Elvis Manyike on 082 465 7249.

The appeal places renewed attention on the role communities can play in helping investigators piece together what happened and identify possible suspects.

The President’s comments come against the backdrop of South Africa’s long-running struggle with violence against women and girls. For families in and around Kempton Park, however, the immediate concern is more personal: understanding what happened to the women who were killed and whether those responsible can be brought to account.

Ramaphosa said the response must go beyond solving these particular cases, calling for the country to stand up for the ‘rights, safety and dignity of women and girls’.

For now, the focus is firmly on the investigation and on gathering the information needed to answer the questions surrounding the deaths.

Follow Joburg ETC on Facebook, Twitter, TikTok and Instagram

For more News in Johannesburg, visit joburgetc.com

Featured Image: @PresidencyZA / X