Joshlin Smith trial: Emotional Lourencia Lombaard breaks down at end of testimony

In an emotional moment during the Joshlin Smith trial, former accused turned State witness, Lourencia Lombaard, broke down in tears on Monday as she concluded her testimony.

Lombaard’s testimony has been key to the prosecution’s case, revealing disturbing details about the alleged sale of six-year-old Joshlin Smith, who has been missing since February 2024.

Disturbing Allegations Emerge

During her testimony, Lombaard alleged that Joshlin’s mother, Kelly Smith, had revealed shocking information about the fate of her missing daughter.

According to Lombaard, Smith told her that the woman who allegedly took Joshlin wanted the child for her eyes and skin.

Lourencia Lombaard

Smith, along with her boyfriend Jacquen Appollis and his friend Stevano van Rhyn, is on trial for kidnapping and human trafficking related to Joshlin’s disappearance.

Joshlin Sold for R20,000

Lombaard had previously testified that she witnessed Smith sell her daughter to a sangoma for R20,000.

She detailed how on 23 February 2024, just four days after Joshlin went missing, she met with Smith at her shack in Middelpos.

During this meeting, Lombaard asked for her share of the money.

She claimed that Smith told her:

“You are also being paid to keep quiet.”

It was during this conversation that Smith allegedly disclosed that the woman who took Joshlin wanted her for her eyes and skin.

Emotional Moment in Court

As State prosecutor Zelda Swanepoel wrapped up her questioning, she asked Lombaard to confirm whether she was telling the truth.

At this moment, Lombaard became overwhelmed with emotion, breaking down in tears in front of the court.

Her emotional response highlighted the gravity of the allegations, leaving the courtroom in stunned silence.

What Happens Next?

With Lombaard’s testimony concluded, the trial now moves into its next phase.

Legal experts believe that the defense will challenge her credibility, as she was initially one of the accused before turning State witness.

The Western Cape High Court in Saldanha Bay is expected to hear further testimony from other witnesses in the coming days.

As the trial continues, Joshlin Smith remains missing, and the case has drawn widespread public attention.

Many South Africans are hoping for justice, while authorities continue their search for answers regarding Joshlin’s fate.