Midrand Police Station has praised the work of Detective Warrant Officer Joseph Lamola, after his investigation helped secure the conviction and sentencing of a murder accused to 12 years direct imprisonment.

The case stems from an incident reported in Midrand on August 21, 2023, when a 36-year-old man was arrested on charges of murder and defeating the ends of justice following the death of a woman at a complex on 14th Road.

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According to police, the accused initially approached a security guard at the complex and was advised to contact the police. When officers arrived, he led them to the apartment, where they found the woman lying on her back in a pool of blood. A kitchen knife was found next to her body, and she had visible stab wounds to her chest and left side.

As the investigation unfolded, further injuries were discovered. When the forensic photographer examined the body more closely, police found three stab wounds to the upper back of the deceased, as well as a cut on a finger on her right-hand.
Sergeant Elia Sam Mabunda and Constable Tshepiso Modise were among the first responders who secured the crime scene and summoned the necessary role players.

Police said the accused claimed that the deceased, described as his girlfriend, had gone to the kitchen and taken her own life, after the pair had been drinking and arguing. However, investigators grew suspicious after questioning him further.

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During the interview, the accused confirmed that the deceased was right-handed. Police said this raised doubts about his version of events, as the wounds found on the woman’s back were inconsistent with his account. This led to his arrest and detention at the Midrand police cells.

The accused made his first appearance in the Alexandra Magistrate’s Court shortly after his arrest, and was remanded in custody. He was later convicted, and, on February 10 this year, sentenced to 12 years direct imprisonment on charges of murder and defeating the ends of justice.

Midrand station commander Brigadier Molefi David Tsotsotso commended Lamola for his dedication and investigative work that contributed to the successful conviction.

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