By Lulama kaSozathini, Pic Graphics: Icamagu News Studio
DIAZVILLE – The Western Cape High Court has found that six-year-old Joshlin Smith was given away and kept against her will. This sad news confirms what many feared, and has left the community heartbroken.
On Friday, Judge Nathan Erasmus gave his judgment at the White City Multipurpose Centre in Diazville. He found Racquel ‘Kelly’ Smith, her boyfriend Jacquen ‘Boeta’ Appollis, and their friend Steveno ‘Steffie’ van Rhyn guilty of kidnapping and trafficking little Joshlin.
Joshlin went missing from her home in Middelpos on February 19, 2024. Her disappearance led to a big search and a long investigation, which ended in the arrest of the three people now found guilty.
The court believed the words of State witness Laurentia ‘Renz’ Lombaard, who spoke out against the accused. Her testimony helped the court understand what happened to Joshlin.
Judge Erasmus said clearly that Joshlin was not lost, but taken and traded, and her freedom was taken away.
After the judgment, many people outside the venue were emotional. Some were crying, while others clapped their hands, feeling that justice had been done.
The three people found guilty will stay in jail until they are sentenced. The court has not yet said when the sentencing will happen.
@icamagunews
