Van Rhyn alleges police coercion in testimony

KIDNAPPING and trafficking accused Steveno van Rhyn faced tough cross-examination in the Western Cape High Court yesterday over his claims of police torture and coerced confessions in the disappearance of 6-year-old Joshlin Smith.

- MANDILAKHE TSHWETE

However, much of the focus in court turned to Judge Nathan Erasmus, who paused proceedings to offer firm guidance on how questioning should be handled, emphasising fairness, simplicity, and comprehension.

Judge Erasmus addressed concerns about Van Rhyn’s low level of education, reminding the court that the accused did not pass Standard 4 (Grade 6) and may struggle with complex legal phrasing.

"I am very conscious of your level of education,” Judge Erasmus told Van Rhyn directly.