Joshlin Smith Trial: Detective Captain Wesley Lombard Denies Assault Allegations

The trial of Joshlin Smith, who went missing in February 2024, continued with Detective Captain Wesley Lombard facing cross-examination from the defence.

Nobahle Mkabayi, representing Steveno van Rhyn in the trial, alleged that Lombard instructed others to assault van Rhyn, claiming he was handcuffed, beaten, and tortured by police.

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Allegations Of Police Brutality

Van Rhyn’s plea explanation during the trial detailed the alleged assault, including being hung in the air, suffocated with a plastic bag, and having his testicles pinched.

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Mkabayi during the trial proceedings emphasized that Lombard was present and gave orders for the assault.

However, Lombard denied the allegations, stating he never instructed anyone to assault the accused.

He further noted that, he did not notice any signs of assault when he met them.

Lombard’s Defence

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Lombard argued at the trial court that, if van Rhyn had been hanging from handcuffs, he would have shown signs of fear and injury, which would have been documented on a J88 police document filled in by a doctor.

He also questioned the plausibility of van Rhyn’s story, stating that a doctor would have noticed the injuries on his forearm.

The trial continues, with the defence’s cross-examination of Lombard ongoing.

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