Police have assembled a multidisciplinary team of detectives, intelligence officers, forensic experts and other specialists to investigate the deaths and establish whether there are links between the cases.

They are also pursuing a person of interest, although they have not disclosed which case or cases that person may be connected to.

“Let’s not get emotional, the gloves are off,” said Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi on Thursday, adding that the authorities had the capacity to deal with the killings.

In a statement on Thursday, South African police said the recent rise in serious and violent crimes against women remained a “matter of grave concern”, urging women in the country to remain vigilant about their personal safety.

They advised women to avoid walking alone or using isolated routes, remain alert to strangers and suspicious vehicles, and share their location or travel plans with someone they trust. They also advised against walking with earphones or earbuds at high volume, warning this could reduce awareness of their surroundings.

“Practising personal safety measures can save lives.”