DIAZVILLE - The state has withdrawn charges against accused number four, Laurent Lombaard, in the Joshlin Smith disappearance case.
The court is seeking answers from her mother, Kelly Smith, her boyfriend Jacquin Appollis and co-accused.
The State says it’s ready to transfer the trial to the High Court for pre-trial proceedings on 31 January.
The Gr 1 learner from Diazville Primary School in Saldanha Bay has been missing since February.
WATCH | Case against Joshlin Smith's mother and others postponed
The Diazville community held a prayer service ahead of her birthday on 23 October.
Community members say they remain hopeful and will continue to pray for Joshlin's safe return.
The accused appeared in the Vredenburg magistrate's court on Monday.
- eNCA reporter Ayesha Ismail has more.