Court proceedings were temporarily disrupted on Thursday after accused Kelly Smith was excused due to a medical emergency.
Judge Nathan Erasmus informed the court that Smith had fallen ill, as relayed to him in chambers. Her legal representative, Rinesh Sivnarain, confirmed she opted to seek immediate medical attention.
“I have been informed that the accused requires medical care. With the defence’s agreement, I rule that proceedings will continue in her absence, as the trial within a trial does not affect Accused Three. The Criminal Procedure Act allows for such circumstances,” Judge Erasmus stated before excusing Smith.
Two female police officers assisted Smith out of the courtroom as she struggled to walk, visibly in pain. Her co-accused looked on with concern as she exited.
Despite her absence, the trial proceeded with the State calling Colonel Edward Clark from the Western Cape Serious and Violent Crimes Unit. Clark, who recorded Steveno van Rhyn’s confession, is expected to present the footage in court as proceedings continue.