Joshlin Smith trial: Jacquen Appollis quizzed about reporting his injuries
Appollis claims he was tortured and beaten repeatedly by five men while he was being interrogated at the Sea Border Police offices in March last year.
Jacquen Appollis, accused number 1 in the Joshlin Smith trial, testifies at the Western Cape High Court sitting in the Saldanha Multi-Purpose Centre on 11 April 2025. Picture: Kayleen Morgan/EWN.
CAPE TOWN - A State prosecutor in the Joshlin Smith trial questioned one of the accused about why he didn't report the alleged extent of his injuries to authorities after he was allegedly tortured during interrogation by police.
Accused number one, Jacquen Appollis, testified in a trial within a trial on Friday for the court to determine whether his confession statement can be used as evidence by the State.
Appollis is on trial, along with Stevano van Rhyn and Joshlin's mother, Kelly Smith, for the child's disappearance.
State prosecutor Aradanha Heeramun asked Appollis why he did not report his alleged torture and injuries to authorities after his arrest.
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Appollis claims he was tortured and beaten repeatedly by five men while he was being interrogated at the Sea Border Police offices in March last year.
He told the court that police detectives told him what to say in his confession statement or the torture would continue.
Heeramun questioned Appollis about why he took so long to report the alleged incident: "Did you report to Mr Smeda what your injuries were?"
Appollis: "No, not on that day."
Heeramun: "Why not?"
Appollis: "I was still a little bit scared."
The trial within a trial will continue on Tuesday next week.