[Cape Town, South Africa] – In a significant development, charges have been dropped against Lorentia Lombaard, one of the accused in the high-profile Joslin Smith case, prosecutors announced today.
The case, which drew widespread attention following Joslin’s disappearance in Saldanha Bay, South Africa, will now proceed against the remaining three defendants: Kelly Smith, Jacquen Rowhan Appollis, and Steveno Dumaizio van Rhyn. They face charges of human trafficking and kidnapping.
State prosecutor Advocate Aradhana Heeramun told the court that the State is ready to transfer the case to the high court for pre-trial proceedings.
“I can confirm today (Monday) that this matter will be transferred in terms of Section 75 of the Criminal Procedure Act to the High Court for a pre-trial conference on the 31st of January 2025, that is in respect of number 1, 2, 3 and in terms to accused number 4, the state withdraws charges.”
Background
Joslin Smith, went missing while in the care of her mother’s boyfriend. An extensive investigation led to the arrest of four individuals, sparking outrage and calls for justice.
Trial Update
The Western Cape High Court has scheduled a pre-trial conference for January 31, 2025. Prosecutors are expected to outline their case against the remaining defendants.
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