Shock as four Durban women brutally murdered in two incidents

It was a weekend of bloodshed in Durban, with the brutal murders of four women in two separate incidents — one allegedly involving a policeman.

In KwaNyuswa, west of Durban, a 23-year-old police officer was arrested after the bodies of two women were found in an out-house. It is alleged both women were shot multiple times.

Police spokesperson Lt-Col Nqobile Gwala told TimesLIVE the policeman has been charged with murder: “A case of murder was reported at Hillcrest SAPS on October 14 at 12.20am. The suspect was detained by Independent Police Investigative Directive.”

He is expected to appear in court on Monday.

In another incident in Isipingo, south of Durban, the bodies of two naked women were found at a warehouse on Sunday.

“On October 16 at 7.15pm, Isipingo police were called to a scene where two bodies of females were found on Mahes Road in Isipingo,” said Gwala.

“On arrival they were shown two bodies of women. One had a wound on the temple, while the other had strangulation marks.

“Charges of murder were opened at Isipingo. We are appealing to anyone who might have information about the suspects involved to contact their nearest police station or Crime Stop on 08600-10111.”

The four killings were condemned by KwaZulu-Natal social development MEC Nonhlanhla Khoza.

“Although the information remains sketchy, it's alleged that both young women were shot multiple times and 11 spent cartridges were found on the scene. It is believed that the firearm used could be a service pistol. It is alleged that the police officer was in a romantic relationship with both deceased,” said Khoza.

“We find solace that the police officer is in custody. No-one should be above the law. Because this police officer was arrested, we believe he will be able to shed light with the law enforcement on what exactly happened. By giving women killers harsher sentences our courts will send a message to these abusers that their actions will not be tolerated.”

Khoza has dispatched social workers to the families of both deceased to provide psychosocial support.

Social workers are picketing outside the Pinetown magistrate’s court.

Khoza also expressed shock about the Isipingo murders: “As a society, we need to play our role in exposing the perpetrators and ensure that all those involved in such cases are brought to book and punished accordingly.”

TimesLIVE

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