The four accused charged with trafficking in persons for purposes of exploitation and kidnapping – Jacques Rowhan Appolis (Joshlin’s mother’s boyfriend) Jacquel Chantal Smith (Joshlin’s mother), Steveno Van Rhyn and Lorentia Lombard appeared at the Vredenburg Magistrate’s Court. It was the first time the four accused who have all abandoned their to apply for bail have appeared together. The State requested the court to postpone the case to 15 July 2024 to allow the further investigation to continue. Senior State Adv Aradhana Heeramun told the court that police were following all the leads and the investigation was ongoing. Adv Heeramun confirmed that the State has received a forensic report and cellphone data downgrade and they are busy being analysed. When the investigation is finalised, the court (Vredenburg Magistrates Court), will be advise of the forum (court) where the trial will be heard. The case was postponed until 15 July 2024 for further investigation after the parties agreed to the proposed date.
