State Presents Case In Joshlin Smith Disappearance Trial, Alleges Plan To Sell Child

The State has argued that the disappearance of six-year-old Joshlin Smith was a deliberate and premeditated plan to sell her for R20,000.

According to testimony from Lourentia “Renz” Lombaard under Section 204, Joshlin’s mother, Racquel “Kelly” Smith, told her she had received the money from a woman believed to be a sangoma and had “sold” Joshlin.

YOU MAY ALSO LIKE: “I Was Minnie Before Marriage!” Minnie Dlamini Enters Anti-Bride Era Amid Heartbreak, Hate & Healing

Corroborating Evidence

The State contends that Lombaard’s account is supported by consistent witness statements and corroborating evidence.

Boeta Appollis, Kelly’s boyfriend, allegedly confirmed in a police statement that the conversation about selling the child took place.

YOU MAY ALSO LIKE: Family, Colleagues Demand Justice For Murdered Municipal Worker

Other witnesses, including Paulina Tosha and Carlyn Zeegers, also provided testimony that supports Lombaard’s claims.

LInconsistencies In Kelly’s Statements

YOU MAY ALSO LIKE: Is Your Skin Ageing Faster Than You Think? Collagen Loss Warning Signs

Prosecutors noted the inconsistencies in Kelly’s statements following her disappearance, which they argue support the veracity of Lombaard’s testimony and indicate a post-factum effort to conceal the crime.

The State’s case relies heavily on the reliability of Lombaard’s account and the corroborating evidence provided by other witnesses.

---

For SA Crime News Follow SurgeZirc SA on Facebook,  X and Instagram