South African President Ramaphosa unveils new measures to tackle violence against women

JOHANNESBURG (AP) — South African President Cyril Ramaphosa announced new measures Tuesday to combat gender-based violence following the killing of at least 11 women in Ekurhuleni, east of Johannesburg, since July.

The recent spate of killings in Ekurhuleni has frightened residents, particularly after the 11th victim’s body was discovered Sunday. The area remains on high alert while authorities investigate whether a serial killer or killers are responsible.

Ramaphosa said four suspects have been arrested in connection with the cases.

Gender-based violence cannot be accepted as a normal part of life. We have not done enough to protect women and girls.

The president stated that while there is widespread fear that the proximity of the bodies suggests a single perpetrator, police have not yet found evidence to confirm a link between all the killings.