State Witness Lourentia Lombaard Acknowledges Errors Under Cross-Examination in the Joshlin Smith Kidnapping Trial
Key Witness in Joshlin Smith Trial Admits Inconsistencies During Cross-Examination
The Joshlin Smith trial took a dramatic turn as the state’s key witness, Lourentia Lombaard, admitted to inconsistencies in her testimony under intense cross-examination. The case, being heard at the Western Cape Circuit High Court in Saldanha, revolves around the alleged sale of six-year-old Joshlin Smith to a sangoma for R20,000.
Defence Challenges Key Witness on Contradictions
During cross-examination on Tuesday, Nobahle Mkabayi, the lawyer representing co-accused Steveno van Rhyn, questioned Lombaard’s ability to witness certain details. Lombaard had previously claimed she saw Kelly Smith, Joshlin’s mother, meeting a sangoma and receiving money. However, Mkabayi pointed out contradictions regarding Van Rhyn’s presence during crucial moments.
Lombaard initially testified that Van Rhyn was at the scene when Kelly walked out with Joshlin. However, upon further questioning, she admitted that she only saw him after Kelly had returned with the money. This contradiction weakened the prosecution’s case and raised doubts about the credibility of the witness.
Read: Joshlin Smith Trial: State Was Set to Call New Witness Due to Laurentia Lombaard’s Health Issues
Dispute Over Visibility of Sangoma’s Facial Features
Another key issue in Lombaard’s testimony was her description of the alleged sangoma. She claimed that she could see white facial markings on the woman who exited a white Polo—a crucial element in linking the suspect to traditional healers. However, Mkabayi challenged this assertion, noting that Lombaard was reportedly 91.8 meters away at the time.
“It would have been impossible for you to see such fine details from that distance,” Mkabayi argued. Despite this, Lombaard insisted she could see the white spots on the woman’s face.
Witness Acknowledges the Consequences of Lying
Mkabayi also questioned Lombaard about the moral and legal consequences of providing false testimony. The witness confirmed she understood the seriousness of lying under oath, especially after swearing on God’s name.
The high-profile trial continues as the court examines further evidence against Kelly Smith, Jacquen “Boeta” Appollis, and Steveno van Rhyn, who are all charged with kidnapping and human trafficking in connection with Joshlin’s disappearance.
Also read: Pretoria Ex-Teacher Accused of Grooming Boys Dies by Suicide
