Cape Town, South Africa — May 29, 2025
The Western Cape High Court has sentenced Kelly Smith, her boyfriend, Jacquen “Boeta” Appollis, and their friend Steveno “Steffie” van Rhyn to life imprisonment for human trafficking, along with an additional 10 years each for kidnapping. The trio was convicted earlier this month for orchestrating the disappearance of six-year-old Joshlin Smith from her home in Middelpos, Saldanha Bay, in February 2024.
Judge Nathan Erasmus delivered the sentences during proceedings held at the White City Multipurpose Centre in Diazville, Saldanha Bay, to accommodate the large public interest in the case. The courtroom was filled with emotional scenes as community members, who had tirelessly searched for Joshlin, reacted to the verdict. Some erupted into cheers, while others were moved to tears.
Read also | 3rd Suspect Added to List of Wanted Men in Olorato Mongale Murder Case
Initially perceived as a grieving mother, Kelly Smith’s narrative unraveled during the trial. Testimonies revealed that she, along with her co-accused, had sold Joshlin to a traditional healer, allegedly for ritualistic purposes.
State witness Lourentia Lombaard, a former accused who turned state’s evidence, testified that Smith admitted to selling her daughter for R20,000. Lombaard recounted that Smith had packed some of Joshlin’s clothes into a bag before the child was handed over to unknown individuals in a white vehicle
The sentencing has not only brought a measure of justice but also ignited a wave of anger and sorrow within the community. Shortly after the convictions, Smith’s home in Middelpos was set ablaze, an act currently under investigation by local authorities. Despite the sentences, Joshlin’s whereabouts remain unknown, leaving a void in the hearts of many.
Ongoing Search for Joshlin
Western Cape Police Commissioner, General Thembisile Patekile, affirmed that the search for Joshlin continues unabated. “We will not rest until we find her,” he stated outside the courtroom. The case has underscored the urgent need for dedicated missing persons units and more robust child protection measures in South Africa.
The tragic case of Joshlin Smith has cast a spotlight on the dark undercurrents of child trafficking in the country. As the nation grapples with the horror of a mother betraying her own child, there is a collective call for vigilance, community support, and systemic change to protect the most vulnerable.
For further updates on this developing story, stay tuned to our platform.
Leave a Reply