Joshlin Smith’s mother and co-accused guilty of kidnapping and trafficking

The Western Cape High Court has found that Joshlin Smith was exchanged and that she was deprived of her liberty.

Racquel ‘Kelly’ Smith, her boyfriend Jacquen ‘Boeta’ Appollis, and their friend Steveno ‘Steffie’ van Rhyn were found guilty of kidnapping and trafficking six-year-old Joshlin Smith.

Judge Nathan Erasmus delivered the highly anticipated judgment at the White City Multipurpose Centre in Diazville on Friday, bringing to a close a harrowing case that has shaken the West Coast community and captured national attention.

Joshlin was reported missing from her Middelpos home on February 19, 2024. Her disappearance sparked a large-scale manhunt and a months-long investigation that culminated in the arrest of the trio.

The court accepted key evidence from State witness Lourentia ‘Renz’ Lombaard, who testified against the accused.

The trio is expected to be remanded in custody ahead of sentencing proceedings. Public reaction outside the venue has been emotional, with some supporters of the family in tears and others applauding the ruling.

More to follow.

Weekend Argus