GAUTENG – The South African Police Service (SAPS) in the North West has officially debunked viral social media rumours alleging that a suspect linked to the Ekurhuleni murders, described as the “Kempton Park Serial Killer,” has relocated to Potchefstroom. Authorities emphasized that the public must not treat unverified messages as official alerts.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, SAPS clarified that Potchefstroom police have not received any official report or complaint confirming the circulating claims. These unverified allegations include the supposed relocation of a suspect to the city, an alleged incident near the Bult, specific suspect descriptions, and claims regarding the deployment of a mobile command centre, drones, and specialised units.
The North West SAPS acknowledged the serious investigations currently underway in the Kempton Park area of Gauteng. However, authorities stressed that this does not establish any connection indicating that a suspect from those investigations has moved to Potchefstroom.
Addressing the broader context of the investigations, Acting Police Minister Professor Firoz Cachalia assured the nation that a high-level, multidisciplinary team possesses the necessary expertise to investigate the streak of women’s murders in Ekurhuleni. Speaking at a media briefing on Tuesday night, Professor Cachalia stated that the team is in place and that SAPS has the proven experience and high-level expertise required to handle cases of this magnitude.
The heightened public alert follows the recent discovery of multiple victims. Over the weekend, police revealed the recovery of four women’s bodies in the same area over a period of approximately two months. Subsequently, two additional bodies were discovered in different areas of Ekurhuleni, Gauteng, on Monday, 14 September 2026, and Tuesday morning, 15 September 2026. The discovery of an eighth body was officially announced on Tuesday evening.
North West Acting Provincial Commissioner Major General Ryno Naidoo appealed to the community to remain calm, vigilant, and responsible when sharing information. Acknowledging the valid concerns such messages raise, particularly among residents and students, Major General Naidoo urged the public not to spread unverified information or create unnecessary panic. He reiterated that any genuine operational development or public safety warning will be communicated exclusively through official SAPS channels.
Major General Naidoo encouraged the public to observe sensible personal safety precautions, particularly after dark. SAPS safety guidance recommends avoiding walking alone where possible, utilizing well-lit areas, and remaining aware of one’s surroundings. He further urged residents and businesses with information relating to criminal incidents to report it directly to the police rather than attempting to investigate or confront individuals themselves.
In cases of emergency or to report a crime, the public should contact 10111 or their local police station. Crime Stop can be reached at 08600 10111 to provide information about criminal activity.
SAPS reiterated that circulating false or misleading information on social media causes unnecessary fear and diverts critical police resources. The police have previously warned communities about the consequences of circulating unverified police-related information. The public is encouraged to obtain police information directly from official SAPS communication platforms and to verify alarming messages before forwarding them.
