The presidency has urged law enforcement agencies to intensify their search for an alleged serial rapist who is operating in Pretoria.

The serial killer is believed to be responsible for the rape and murder of 12 women in Mamelodi and Sunnyside. It is believed that the alleged serial rapist started the attacks on young women since 2004.

Police have confirmed that they found DNA similarities in four incidents. Police spokesperson, Neville Malila says they are analysing 14 dockets.

“In the analysis where those dockets have been collected, four of those dockets indicated the similarities in terms of DNA analysis, 12 of those dockets involve female victims in the ages between 18 and 35. There are various units that are part of the investigation team, that is also including the psychological unit.”

The news of a possible serial rapist, who could also be linked to some murders of his victims, has also shocked the presidency. About 60 000 women fall victims to gender-based violence across South Africa each year.

Presidential spokesperson Mac Maharaj has urged the community to work with the police in this case and make use of the national women’s month to fight the scourge of gender-based violence in the country.

National Police Commissioner, Riah Phiyega has also reacted with shock and has immediately ordered a top team of detectives to investigate the case. Police could not say if any arrest is imminent.
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