Latest News & Developments
human trafficking
End of May sentencing for those convicted in Joshlin Smith kidnapping
Three offenders convicted in the kidnapping of six-year-old Joshlin Smith are set for sentencing at the end of May, with the hearings taking place close to the community affected by her disappearance.
Sentencing set for end of May in Joshlin Smith kidnapping case
Sentencing for the three convicted kidnappers of six-year-old Joshlin Smith is set for late May, as the community of Diazville seeks answers and justice for the missing child.
Joshlin Smith case: Accused convicted, but the search for the missing child continues
Judge Nathan Erasmus appreciated the community's support during the Joshlin Smith trial before convicting the accused in the matter. Family and community members were satisfied with outcome but still longed to know the whereabouts of the child. .
How Asian cyber scam centres are expanding their global reach
A report from the UN Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) warns that Asian criminal networks are broadening their operations, targeting new victims worldwide in a surge of cyber-enabled fraud and money laundering.
The rise of Asian cyber scam centres: A global threat
A report from the UN Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) warns that Asian criminal networks are broadening their operations, targeting new victims worldwide in a surge of cyber-enabled fraud and money laundering.
Joshlin Smith accused elect not to take stand, state their case
Jacquen ‘Boeta’ Appollis and Steveno van Rhyn both elected to not give evidence or call witnesses.
Judge denies defence's request to drop charges in Joshlin Smith trial
In a pivotal moment of the Joshlin Smith trial, Judge Nathan Erasmus rejects the defence's request to dismiss charges, paving the way for a contentious legal showdown.
Judge Nathan Erasmus denies defence counsel request to drop charges in Joshlin Smith trial
Following the State's closure of its case in the Joshlin Smith trial, the defence's plea to dismiss charges was met with a firm refusal from Judge Nathan Erasmus, setting the stage for a contentious legal battle ahead.
Joshlin Smith trial update: State prepares to conclude its case amid rising tensions
Key testimonies in the Joshlin Smith disappearance case unfold as the State prepares to conclude its arguments, raising questions about the relevance of previously accused Phumza Sigaqa.
Joshlin Smith trial nears conclusion as State prepares to wrap up its case
As the Joshlin Smith trial reaches its climax, the State prepares to conclude its case, raising critical questions about the fate of the accused and the missing girl.
Joshlin Smith trial: State expected to conclude its case
As the Joshlin Smith trial approaches its conclusion, the State is set to wrap up its case, leaving many to wonder about the fate of the accused and the missing girl.
Investigators reveal DNA evidence does not connect to missing girl
In the ongoing trial regarding Joshlin Smith's disappearance, Captain Wesley Lombard reveals the challenges faced by investigators and the numerous false leads encountered.
Joshlin Smith trial: DNA evidence fails to link to missing girl
The Joshlin Smith trial enters its eighth week and Investigating Officer Wesley Lombard is called back to the stand.
Joshlin Smith: Main trial resumes this week
Joshlin Smith's trial resumes this week in the Western Cape High Court. As the case unfolds, what new evidence will emerge in the search for the missing girl?
Third suspect arrested in Cape Town human trafficking case involving minor victim
Hawks have arrested a 35-year-old woman as the third suspect in a Cape Town human trafficking investigation, following the discovery of a brothel in Plumstead where a minor was rescued. The multi-agency operation has already led to two other suspects remaining in custody as authorities dismantle what officials describe as 'an evil form of modern slavery'.
UPDATE: Third suspect arrested in Plumstead human trafficking case
A third suspect linked to a human trafficking ring in Plumstead has been arrested, with serious charges pending in the Wynberg Magistrate’s Court.
'Get off your high horse': X users slam Hugh Grant for 'Karen' behaviour at airport
Social media users did not hold back on their comments to Hugh Grant following his rant on X.
Court reviews ‘Boeta’s alleged confession in trial-within-a-trial
In the ongoing trial-within-a-trial for the Joshlin Smith case, Judge Nathan Erasmus reviews critical footage of an alleged confession, raising questions about police conduct and the admissibility of evidence.
Court examines Jacquen ‘Boeta’ Appollis's confession in the Joshlin Smith trial
In the ongoing Joshlin Smith trial, the court reviews Jacquen ‘Boeta’ Appollis’s confession, raising critical questions about its validity and the potential impact on the case.
Judge Nathan Erasmus rules on media publication in Joshlin Smith trial
This is what Judge Nathan Erasmus made a ruling on.
Court questions the legitimacy of Steveno van Rhyn's alleged injuries
As the trial within a trial continues, Judge Nathan Erasmus examines the validity of Steveno van Rhyn's alleged confession amidst claims of police misconduct.
Joshlin Smith trial | Steveno van Rhyn's injuries questioned
In the ongoing Joshlin Smith trial, police officer Captain Seekoei's testimony raises questions about the validity of Steveno van Rhyn's alleged confession, as he claims not to have noticed any injuries during the interview.
NPA prepares report on Timothy Omotoso's acquittal amidst prosecution conduct concerns
As communities rally for justice, the NPA's forthcoming report may reveal crucial insights into the prosecutorial shortcomings that led to Timothy Omotoso's acquittal.
Judge Nathan Erasmus criticises State for sloppy evidence in Joshlin Smith trial
"This is such an important case. We are dealing with a child that went missing,” Judge Nathan Erasmus said.
Judge criticises State's sloppy evidence handling
What did Judge Nathan Erasmus reveal about the State's evidence gathering in the Joshlin Smith trial?