South Africa's Serial Killings Expose a Deadly Failure to Protect Women

The discovery of several women's bodies on the outskirts of Johannesburg has sparked fear and outrage across South Africa. Police say the women were found naked or partially clothed, and some had bruising. At least three suspects are in custody. Authorities are investigating whether the killings are connected. These deaths are not isolated. They are part of a long-standing crisis of gender-based violence in South Africa. Earlier in 2026, Human Rights Watch reported that failures in the criminal justice system block women from getting justice. Survivors also have limited access to mental health support. Sex workers, LGBT people, and undocumented women face even greater barriers to protection. The South African Medical Research Council has estimated that nearly seven women are killed each day in the country. Three of those are killed by an intimate partner. In about 44 percent of cases, police never identify a suspect. South Africa's Constitution and international law guarantee women the rights to equality, dignity, life, and safety—including freedom from violence. After the killings, police urged women to avoid walking or exercising alone. Such warnings shift blame to victims. They cannot replace real measures to prevent and respond to gender-based violence. Instead, authorities should conduct safety audits in affected communities. They should improve lighting and police visibility. They should strengthen efforts to prevent domestic violence and respond quickly when women are reported missing. They need adequate resources to investigate and prosecute these cases—and to keep families informed. President Cyril Ramaphosa has condemned the killings. He said South Africa must stand up for women's "rights, safety and dignity." That requires more than condolences and warnings. It requires immediate government action so women can live, work, travel, and participate in public life freely and safely.