Witness in Joshlin Smith’s case overwhelmed by media attention

The three accused in the Joshlin Smith kidnapping trial seen appearing before court.

1 minute

The state’s star witness in the Joshlin Smith kidnapping and human trafficking trial, Lorentia Lombaard, says she is overwhelmed by all the media attention.

She is being cross-examined in the High Court sitting in Saldhana Bay in the Western Cape. Joshlin’s mother, Kelly Smith, and two others are on trial for the child’s disappearance.

Lombaard broke down on Wednesday, leading to an early adjournment of the case.

Both defence attorney, Fanie Harmse, as well as High Court Judge Nathan Erasmus, have picked up on several discrepancies in her testimony and her original statement to police.

Lombaard explains her predicament: “As I said, I was confused and scared because I haven’t spoken in front of someone before and I haven’t been in front of cameras.”

Laurentia Lombaard tells the Saldanha Bay Circuit High Court that the person who wanted #JoshlinSmith was interested in her eyes and skin, according to her mother, Kelly Smith.

Last week, she testified that the 7yr old girl was allegedly sold to a sangoma for R20K.#sabcnews pic.twitter.com/56kg21KQJY

— Sphiwe Hobasi (@MrCow_man) March 17, 2025