The Western Cape High Court has delivered a damning verdict in the case of missing six-year-old Joshlin Smith, finding that she was kidnapped, trafficked, and unlawfully deprived of her liberty.
Racquel ‘Kelly’ Smith — Joshlin’s mother — her boyfriend Jacquen ‘Boeta’ Appollis, and family friend Steveno ‘Steffie’ van Rhyn were found guilty of the crimes following a highly anticipated judgment handed down on Friday at the White City Multipurpose Centre in Diazville.
Judge Nathan Erasmus, presiding over the case that has gripped the nation and devastated the West Coast community, confirmed the court’s acceptance of crucial testimony from State witness Lourentia ‘Renz’ Lombaard.
Joshlin was reported missing from her home in Middelpos on February 19, 2024, triggering a widespread manhunt and a prolonged investigation that ultimately led to the trio’s arrest.
All three have been remanded in custody pending sentencing. Outside the court, emotional scenes unfolded as community members and family supporters reacted to the verdict, with some in tears and others applauding the ruling.