Joshlin Smith trial: NPA awaits medical report on key witness
Joshlin Smith trial: NPA awaits medical report on key witness! The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) is currently awaiting a medical report to determine whether Lourencia Lombaard, the State’s main witness in the Joshlin Smith trial, is fit to continue with her cross-examination.
Lombaard, who was initially one of the accused, has since turned State witness. However, she struggled to complete her testimony in court on Wednesday, requiring assistance from officials after suffering what appeared to be a panic attack.
Panic Attack in Court
During Wednesday’s proceedings, Lombaard had to be escorted out of the dock twice as she became visibly distressed.
- She was undergoing intense questioning from the defence team regarding her version of events from the day before Joshlin Smith went missing.
- Prior to the cross-examination, she had already indicated that she was feeling unwell.
- As the questioning continued, she broke down, leading to the interruption of the trial.
The prosecution is now waiting for a medical assessment to confirm if she will be able to resume testimony.
Joshlin Smith trial
Lombaard’s Testimony and Key Allegations
Lombaard’s testimony has been crucial in the case, as she has made serious allegations against Joshlin’s mother, Kelly Smith, and her two co-accused, Jacquen Appollis and Stevano van Rhyn.
- She implicated the three suspects, claiming they were involved in selling Joshlin to a sangoma for R20,000.
- The defence, however, has been challenging her account, leading to intense cross-examination in court.
NPA’s Response and Next Steps
The NPA’s spokesperson, Eric Ntabazalila, confirmed that the State is waiting for a medical report before deciding whether Lombaard will continue her testimony.
“As cross-examination continued, she started breaking down, and depending on the report we get from the doctors, we may continue.”
If Lombaard is deemed unfit to proceed on Thursday, the State will call a new witness to the stand.
“If we don’t continue with her, she’s unfit to continue the cross-examination. We will call another witness, Colonel Morris, who will testify around social media and videos.”
Upcoming Testimony and Trial Progression
Should Lombaard be unable to continue, the next witness, Colonel Morris, is expected to provide evidence related to social media activity and videos that could be relevant to the case.
The trial is scheduled to resume on Thursday at the Western Cape High Court, which is currently sitting at the Saldanha Bay multi-purpose centre.
Public Interest in the Case
The disappearance of six-year-old Joshlin Smith has gained national attention, with the case sparking public outcry and demands for justice.
- Joshlin was reported missing in February, and multiple theories have since emerged regarding her fate.
- The State alleges that her mother and the co-accused were involved in selling her, though the defence has denied these claims.
- The trial has been marked by emotional testimony, including Lombaard’s accusations and breakdown in court.
What Happens Next?
If the medical report clears Lombaard to continue, the defence will resume cross-examination on Thursday.
If she cannot proceed, the State will call Colonel Morris as the next witness to present new evidence.
The court proceedings remain highly anticipated, as the trial moves forward in one of South Africa’s most disturbing child disappearance cases.
