Investigating officer highlights ‘red flags’ identified with accused after Joshlin Smith disappearance

CAPE TOWN - The investigating officer in the Joshlin Smith case has highlighted certain "red flags" he identified in statements and interactions he had with the accused after the child went missing.  

Captain Wesley Lombard is in the dock again on Thursday to testify about his investigation into Joshlin's disappearance.  

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Lombard interviewed Joshlin's mother, Kelly Smith, and her boyfriend, Jacquen Appollis, a week after the little girl went missing.  

Lombard told the court he became suspicious of Smith and Appollis after interviewing them on 25 February 2024, six days after Joshlin went missing.  

Lombard said that after becoming suspicious, he asked Smith if she was willing to give a statement, but she refused, saying she and Appollis needed to get breakfast.  

He said he found it strange that the parents of a missing child were not prepared to give up their time to assist in the investigation.  

The captain told the court he was also shocked when Smith told him her missing child had made her famous.  

Lombard also highlighted certain inconsistencies in the statements the accused made to police on the day Joshlin went missing.  

The proceedings were then abruptly adjourned for Smith to receive medical assistance after she indicated she was becoming nauseous.