Van Rhyn's confession statement back in spotlight at trial into Joshlin Smith's disappearance

SALDANHA BAY - The cross-examination of a police detective in the Joshlin Smith trial is set to continue on Thursday.

Captain Philip Seekoei is being questioned about the confession statement he took from accused number two, Stevano van Rhyn.

Van Rhyn and co-accused, Jacquen Appollis, claim they were tortured by police to admit their involvement in Joshlin's disappearance.

Captain Seekoei will continue being cross-examined by defence attorney, Nobahle Mkabayi, on Thursday.

Seekoei took Van Rhyn's confession statement in March last year.

Van Rhyn and Appollis claim they were tortured by police to implicate Kelly Smith as the mastermind behind Joshlin's disappearance.

Seekoei on Wednesday denied having any knowledge of the accused being tortured.

When questioned about why he continued taking Van Rhyn's statement while the accused appeared to be sleeping, the detective told the court he did not notice that the accused's eyes were closed.

Seekoei will take the stand again on Thursday when the trial resumes.