The ongoing trial of Joshlin Smith's mother uncovers disturbing details linking her daughter's tragic disappearance to human trafficking and potential traditional healers.
Missing South African Girl's Disappearance Linked to Dark Allegations
Missing South African Girl's Disappearance Linked to Dark Allegations
A trial reveals shocking claims surrounding the missing child, as the community awaits answers.
A young South African girl, Joshlin Smith, who vanished in February 2024 at the age of six, is at the center of a troubling court case alleging that her mother, Kelly Smith, sought to sell her daughter to a traditional healer for her "eyes and skin." The shocking claims emerged during the trial, where Kelly Smith along with her boyfriend Jacquen Appollis and friend Steveno van Rhyn plead not guilty to charges of human trafficking and kidnapping.
The incident has rattled the South African community, especially following Joshlin's disappearance from her home in Saldanha Bay, near Cape Town. Despite extensive search efforts, she remains unaccounted for. Initial reports indicated that Kelly claimed Joshlin disappeared after leaving her in Mr. Appollis's care. However, prosecutors later accused her of lying and attempting to profit from her daughter's abduction.
Throughout the trial, testimonies revealed alarming inconsistencies. Kelly reportedly waited over six hours to inform authorities about Joshlin's disappearance. The court learned that she seemed more anxious for her boyfriend’s location than concerned about her missing child.
As the trial progressed, disturbing anecdotes emerged from witnesses, including a local pastor who recalled Kelly discussing selling her children in exchange for money. This was corroborated by Joshlin's teacher, who testified that Kelly implied her daughter had been shipped out of the country shortly after going missing.
Crucial evidence came when Lourentia Lombaard, a friend and neighbor, became a state witness. Over three days, she recounted Kelly's admission of selling Joshlin to a traditional healer, motivated by financial desperation. Lombaard stated she saw Kelly prepare Joshlin's belongings for this meeting, which led to a white car that drove away with a woman believed to be the healer.
The court heard the witness express remorse for her inability to prevent the tragedy, pleading for Joshlin’s safe return. The trial is set to continue until March 28, as the community remains hopeful for answers regarding the young girl’s fate.
