Joshlin Smith: Trial Within A Trial Continues As Court Hears Police Torture Confession

The trial within a trial in the Western Cape High Court sitting in Saldanha continued on Friday, with the court set to play video footage of Jacquen ‘Boeta’ Appollis’ alleged confession.

However, before the footage was played, Appollis’ lawyer, Fanie Harmse, brought to the court’s attention that his client had been informed what to say in his statement.

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Judge Erasmus Orders Contextual Publication Of Statement

Judge Nathan Erasmus expressed concerns that the accused may be prejudiced due to distorted facts.

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He decided that any publication of the statement must be done in context.

The judge noted that the accused had stated that a specific portion of the confession did not come from his own knowledge.

The judge warned that any publication contrary to this order may be met with contempt charges.

Allegations Of Police Brutality Hang Over the Case

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Appollis and his co-accused, Steven van Rhyn, claimed they were attacked and tortured by police, prompting the trial within a trial.

The court is tasked with determining the admissibility of their statements.

The case is part of the larger trial involving the kidnapping and human trafficking of 7-year-old Joshlin Smith.

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