Defence claims torture, coercion in Joshlin Smith confessions

THE validity of the confessions in the Joshlin Smith disappearance case was questioned by defence attorneys, who claimed that coercion, torture, and undue influence were used to obtain them.

- MANDILAKHE TSHWETE [e-mail]

Detective Captain Wesley Lombard denied any assaults took place in his presence, as the trial continued with a focus on the treatment of the accused.

The six-year-old girl went missing from her Middelpos home on February 19.

Her mom Racquel 'Kelly' Smith, boyfriend Jacquen 'Boeta' Appollis and Steveno 'Steffie' van Rhyn are on trial and face kidnapping and human trafficking charges.

Charges were dropped against Lourentia 'Renz' Lombaard who turned State witness.

On Friday morning, Appollis' lawyer Fanie Harmse argued that the statements made by his client were obtained under duress.

He stated that on March 4, his client believed the individuals at the Sea Border offices to be police officers, despite them not wearing uniforms.

Van Rhyn's attorney Nobahle Mkabayi said she reviewed the evidence and argued that the statement given was not a clear confession but rather an admission of certain facts.