The Nigerian Consulate-General in Johannesburg has urged Nigerians, especially women, to stay alert around Kempton Park, Rhodesfield and nearby areas of Ekurhuleni after eight women died there within about two months.
The Consulate said the South African Police Service (SAPS) continues to investigate the deaths. A multidisciplinary team of specialised law-enforcement officers now handles the cases.
It said investigators have found similarities in some cases and are checking whether the incidents could have a connection.
The Consulate stressed that SAPS has not confirmed that one person committed the deaths or that a serial killer is involved.
The advisory said each case remains under investigation while urging Nigerian women and girls who live, work, study, exercise, socialise or travel in the affected areas to remain especially vigilant.
Furthermore, SAPS quarterly crime figures recorded 1,223 murders and 2,369 sexual offences in Gauteng between January and March 2026.
The police also recorded 39,094 contact crimes against persons during the period.
The Consulate said the figures show the wider level of violent and sexual crime in Gauteng. However, it stressed that they do not link the eight deaths to one crime pattern.
The Consulate advised Nigerians to avoid walking, jogging or exercising alone in isolated, poorly lit or unfamiliar places. It specifically mentioned open fields, secluded paths and areas with few pedestrians.
Meanwhile, residents should travel and exercise in groups when possible.
The Consulate also advised them to use established walking, running or fitness groups rather than exercising alone.
Nigerians should avoid predictable routines and stay aware of their surroundings. They should also limit distractions, including prolonged use of headphones or mobile phones in areas with poor visibility or little pedestrian activity.
The Consulate urged residents to tell family members, friends or trusted people about their destinations, routes and expected return times. It also advised them to consider live-location sharing where appropriate.
In addition, Nigerians should use reputable and traceable transport services. They should avoid accepting lifts from strangers or entering vehicles when they cannot independently verify the driver, registration details or destination.
The Consulate also urged people meeting contacts first encountered online to take precautions. They should choose busy public places, inform trusted people and arrange their own transport.
Consequently, the Consulate advised Nigerians to trust their instincts and leave any situation they consider unsafe or suspicious. They should move to populated, secure and well-lit areas.
The advisory urged community members to report suspicious people, vehicles and unusual activities to SAPS or other competent authorities. Nigerians should also report information about missing persons directly to the police.
For emergencies, the Consulate listed SAPS emergency number 10111 and mobile emergency number 112.
People can also report information anonymously through 08600 10111 or the MySAPS application. SAPS also confirms these reporting channels.
Nigerians directly affected by serious incidents should contact the Consulate through its community line, +27627642412, or by email.
However, the Consulate urged Nigerians to act responsibly when sharing information about the deaths. It warned against circulating photographs, names, videos, voice notes or allegations that identify suspects or link unrelated incidents without verification.
It said such actions could affect ongoing investigations, harm innocent people and weaken the work of law-enforcement agencies.
The Consulate said it would continue to monitor developments. It will also liaise with the Nigerian High Commission in Pretoria and relevant South African authorities.
The Consulate expressed condolences to the families of the deceased women. It urged Nigerians with credible information that could help investigators to report directly to SAPS rather than share it on social media.
The advisory was signed by Amb. (Mrs.) NiniKangwa O. Okey-Uche, mni, Consul General, Nigerian Consulate-General, Johannesburg.
External links
South African Police Service safety guidance
SAPS emergency number information
Nigeria Ministry of Foreign Affairs Citizens Helpdesk
