The South African Police Service (SAPS) has said the number of women’s bodies discovered in Ekurhuleni area has risen to nine as authorities continue investigating the unexplained deaths.

Reports noted that the latest body was discovered half-naked and wrapped in a sheet on the side of the road in Dawn Park on Thursday. 

Video seen by the Peoples Gazette showed dozens of concerned residents of the area standing around the location where the body was found with heavy presence of law enforcement officers. 

Investigators were said to be working to establish her identity and circumstances surrounding her death. 

The discovery followed the deaths of eight other women whose bodies were found starting from July 15 till date across Ekurhuleni, a major urban area of Johannesburg.

Several of the remains were found partially clothed and with injuries sparking speculation of a loose serial killer among the public but police stressed they were still investigating whether the cases were connected. 

Speaking after the latest discovery, Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi assured that the investigations were underway to unravel the mystery. 

“Someone has declared war against us and we will push back. I have full confidence in the team. South Africans must know, someone has declared war against us, we will push back. We’re not going to surrender. They have declared war and we have to return it. The state has the capacity,” Mr Lesufi said. 

He added, “The groundwork has been done. No one must have doubts that we’re picking up bodies and there is no work being done. The team is working around the clock, and they are briefing us hourly and indicating the evidence they have.

“They have cracked many big cases before, and I have no doubt that they will break this case. But we must give them space to gather evidence. I have full, full confidence in them.”

Meanwhile, Gauteng acting police commissioner Fred Kekana said that “The teams are busy following up each and every piece of information provided.”