Seven women found dead near Johannesburg airport, sparking femicide concerns

A series of murders involving women has been uncovered around Johannesburg’s international airport, raising concerns about the city’s ongoing struggle with femicide. Police have now identified seven female victims, five of whom were discovered within the past week. The most recent case involves 38‑year‑old Elizabeth “Tsontso” Moselakgomo, who failed to return from a run on 9 September. Her eight‑year‑old daughter alerted relatives, who in turn contacted authorities; Moselakgomo’s body was recovered on Saturday and formally identified by family members on Monday. The disappearance and subsequent discovery of her remains quickly spread across social media platforms, intensifying public attention.

The string of killings has prompted an outpouring of fear, grief and anger among community members and advocacy groups, who cite a perceived lack of progress in addressing gender‑based violence. Law enforcement agencies have confirmed that investigations are ongoing and have pledged to allocate additional resources to the case, though no arrests have been reported to date. The incidents underscore broader challenges facing South Africa in curbing femicide, and officials have called for heightened cooperation between police, social services and civil society to prevent further loss of life.