Fresh details surrounding the disappearance of missing six-year-old Joslin Smith came to light in court today, as the high court trial continues in Saldanha Bay. Little Joslin vanished from home in the Middelpos informal settlement on 19 February 2024, and remains missing.
On day three of the high-profile trial, the girl’s mother and her two co-accused were back in the dock and their attorneys relayed their plea explanations. The trio stands accused of kidnapping and selling little Joslin for R20 000.
Two of the suspects, Jacquin Appollis and Steveno van Rhyn argued in their plea statements that they were tortured and assaulted by police officers over several days. They also claim they were coerced into giving false statements.
READ MORE: Joslin Smith trial: Another police officer takes the stand
“They pinched my testicles, opened my mouth and forced a gun inside it, promising to kill me and bury me inside the (ocean) sand or throw me in the ocean,” said van Rhyn’s attorney, Nobahle Mkabayi.
His plea explanation also included that he was hanging in mid-air at one stage.
READ MORE: Joslin Smith’s mother and co-accused plead not guilty as trial commences
“A plastic bag was placed over my head, while I was hit on my head, legs, feet and hands. I could not breathe.”
JOSHLIN SMITH KIDNAPPING TRIAL ENTERS DAY 3 IN SALDANHA BAY https://t.co/EMKPesgGqb
— Newzroom Afrika (@Newzroom405) March 5, 2025
