Carlo Petersen
A SPECIAL investigative unit and a R50 000 reward for information to assist police in solving the murders of six women – all found buried face down in shallow graves with their hands tied behind their backs.
These are the latest developments after another badly decomposed body of a woman was found on a stretch of bushy land between Century City and Acacia Park train stations on Friday.
Last week police revealed that one body had been found every two months since February on the Transnet-owned land.
Distraught residents from nearby Kensington said they have for years urged Transnet to clear the land, but their pleas had fallen on deaf ears.
Provincial police commissioner Arno Lamoer said the bodies were being examined by forensic experts and investigators are waiting for DNA results to determine the identities of the victims.
“I have appointed a special task team and at this point we cannot speculate on whether this is the work of a serial killer,” he said.
After offering the R50 000 reward on behalf of the city yesterday, mayor Patricia De Lille said she was gravely concerned about the murders.
“I would like to offer a reward of R50 000 to anyone who can assist the police with their investigation. Every life lost to murder is a loss too many.
“The lives of these six young females have been cut short in senseless acts of brutality. We condemn these murders in the strongest terms possible.
“As residents of Cape Town, we should stand up and ensure that the young females have not lost their lives in vain. I appeal to residents to come forward with information that could lead to arrests.”
Community Safety MEC Dan Plato told the Cape Times the discovery of the sixth body was “shocking”.
“It seems to be the same person or persons doing the killing, but I have been assured by police commissioner Arno Lamoer that a task team will take prompt action to solve these cases,” Plato said.
Kensington/Facreton Residents and Ratepayers Association chairman Brian Williams said: “There is a huge concern among residents. The failure of Transnet to clear the land is a contributing factor.”
However, Transnet spokeswoman Viwe Tlaleane said illegal dumping had hampered efforts to secure the property.
“Transnet removed rubble and erected concrete sleepers to prevent illegal dumping. The sleepers were removed during construction of Kensington station. A boom gate was installed, but the gate was stolen,” she said
Anyone with information can contact Kensington police at 021 594 7043, orCrime Stop at 0800 1011, or SMS Crimeline at 32211.