Lamola, who first became a police officer in 1991, was mowed down by a speeding driver.
Read Midrand police officer killed in hit and run while at church service
Midrand Police Station Commander Colonel Steven Moodley said the officer was survived by his wife and four children. Moodley also said investigations into the vehicle that ploughed into the officer and two of his fellow church members was ongoing. Although the case is being investigated by the Olivienhoutbosch Police Station, Moodley could only reveal that a case has been opened against the driver of the BMW, who is yet to be arrested.
“Lamola was at a church service at 3am on the morning of 2 August when he and two other members of the church’s lives came to a tragic end at the corners of the R55 and Waterberg Road,” said Moodley.
At the memorial service which was held on 5 August at Midrand Police Station, the deceased officer was described as a church-goer of note.
“He always had a smile on his face when I entered the station,” said Ward 93 councillor Annette Deppe, who gave an emotional speech about her relationship with Lamola.
“He loved his family and his church,” said Deppe.
“He once asked me to accompany him to where his church was worshipping. The conditions are appalling, the people do not have water and it was just in the open veld,” she said.
Deppe concluded by pledging to help improve the church’s conditions; and finding the Midrand police a soccer field, which was one of Lamola’s last wishes.
Read Deppe speaks about deceased police officer
The family of the officer was represented by his uncle, Moriti Sekhwela. Sekhwela thanked the community of Midrand for supporting his family.
“As a family, we shall be strong about his passing. He served his purpose,” he said, as he spoke of his nephew’s 24 years in service of the South African Police Service.
Have you noticed reckless driving in your area? Let us know on midrandreporter@caxton.co.za
