Day 29 of the Joshlin Smith trial is expected to continue with the cross-examination of accused Jacquen Appollis, following a disruptive yet revealing Day 28 that saw his testimony come under scrutiny.
What to expect from the Joshlin Smith trial on Day 29
The state is anticipated to push further on inconsistencies in Appollis’s timeline, statements, and allegations of torture, which have so far been challenged through documentary and testimonial evidence.
Tuesday’s proceedings will likely see state prosecutor Aradhana Heeramun resume questioning Appollis on contradictions between his initial plea explanation and what has been presented during the trial-within-a-trial.
Key focus areas may include his fluctuating accounts of what time he arrived at the Sea Border offices on 4 March 2024 and his shifting allegations regarding which police officers were present or involved in his alleged assault. The judge has already noted that multiple elements in Appollis’s testimony changed only after hearing other witnesses testify, raising questions about the reliability of his version.
The trial will also likely address whether Appollis’s claims about being involved in the trip to Makalima’s house are credible, especially given that his legal team failed to put these claims to earlier state witnesses.
With the court scheduled to resume at 10:00, and the judge’s health limiting longer sessions, Tuesday is expected to be a pivotal day in shaping how the court assesses Appollis’s credibility going forward.
Readers can follow the live trial coverage today as the courtroom battle intensifies.
Recap of Day 28: Key testimonies and new revelations
Day 28 was marked by the continued testimony of Jacquen Appollis, who took the stand to distance himself from parts of his alleged confession while reaffirming others.
He admitted to key events on the day of Joshlin’s disappearance, including interactions with Kelly Smith and movements with co-accused Steveno van Rhyn, but denied any role in a plan to sell Joshlin to a woman known as “Makalima.”
Appollis claimed he was assaulted by police and coerced into making false statements, including being beaten with batons while wrapped in a flag. The state challenged his claims, pointing to inconsistencies in his account and the absence of physical evidence in medical reports to support the severity of the alleged torture. His evolving timeline—particularly his change from saying he arrived at Sea Border around lunchtime to later citing 16:00 to 17:00—was a central focus of the state’s attack.
Judge Nathan Erasmus also questioned the logic behind Appollis’s version of events, especially given the serious nature of the accusations and the implications for senior officers involved.
The day concluded with the judge opting to adjourn early due to his health, pausing cross-examination until Tuesday.
