Joshlin Smith trial: State witness to continue testimony after explosive revelations

The Joshlin Smith trial is set to continue on Monday, with a former accused who turned State witness, Lourentia Lombaard, expected to resume her testimony after making shocking revelations last week.

The case has gripped the public as Joshlin’s mother, Kelly Smith, along with Jacquen Appollis and Stevano van Rhyn, stand trial for the kidnapping and human trafficking of the missing young girl. The proceedings are taking place at the Western Cape High Court, currently sitting in the Saldanha Bay multi-purpose centre.

State Witness Drops Bombshell Testimony

During her testimony, Lombaard provided chilling details about Joshlin’s alleged sale, implicating the three accused in a disturbing human trafficking scheme.

She told the court that she had overheard Kelly Smith discussing plans to sell her own daughter before later witnessing the exchange take place.

“I saw Smith take Joshlin to a white car where she met an unknown woman who handed her a small package,” Lombaard testified.

According to her, this encounter occurred just one day before Joshlin was reported missing.

Shocking Confession: Joshlin Allegedly Sold for R20,000

Lombaard further testified that Smith later admitted to selling Joshlin to a sangoma for R20,000.

She alleged that Smith had attempted to bribe her and Van Rhyn with R1,000 each to remain silent about what they had seen.

“The rest of the money would be split between Smith and Appollis,” Lombaard revealed.

However, despite their initial agreement to accept the hush money, Smith never paid them anything.

Timeline of Joshlin’s Disappearance

Lombaard also detailed the events leading up to Joshlin’s disappearance.

• The day before she went missing, Lombaard said she witnessed Smith taking Joshlin to the same unknown woman.
• The following day, Smith took Joshlin to meet the woman again.
• Later, Smith returned home and reported Joshlin missing.

Her explosive testimony has intensified public outrage, with many calling for swift justice for the missing child.

Defense’s Response and Ongoing Investigations

As Lombaard prepares to continue her testimony, it remains to be seen how the defense will counter her claims.

The defense team is expected to scrutinize her credibility, given that she was previously an accused in the case before turning State witness.

Meanwhile, law enforcement continues investigations into the whereabouts of Joshlin, who has not been found since her disappearance.

Community and Public Outcry

The case has sparked widespread anger and concern, especially within the Saldanha Bay community, where residents have held vigils and protests demanding justice.

The trial will continue on Monday, where more details are expected to emerge as Lombaard resumes her testimony.