Mother Stands Trial Over Alleged Role in Daughter’s Kidnapping in South Africa

The mother of six-year-old Joshlin Smith, who vanished over a year ago in Saldanha Bay, South Africa, is on trial for allegedly orchestrating her daughter’s kidnapping and human trafficking.

Kelly Smith, her boyfriend Jacquen Appollis, and their friend Steveno van Rhyn have all pleaded not guilty to the charges.

Disappearance Sparks Widespread Fear

Joshlin went missing in February 2023, triggering a nationwide search. Initially, her mother claimed the child disappeared while under Appollis’ care, but prosecutors later accused Smith of having “sold, delivered, or exchanged” her daughter and lying about the circumstances.

The case took a turn when Lorentia Lombaard, a former co-accused and friend of Smith, turned state witness, shedding new light on the investigation.

Public Outrage and High-Profile Involvement

Joshlin’s disappearance deeply unsettled the Saldanha Bay community and gained attention from South Africa’s Sports Minister, Gayton McKenzie, who offered a one-million-rand (£42,500; $54,000) reward for information leading to her safe return.

Trial Opens in Special Court

To accommodate public interest, authorities have repurposed the Saldanha multi-purpose centre into a high court, ensuring the local community has access to the proceedings. The trial, set to run from 3-28 March, will seek to uncover the truth behind Joshlin’s disappearance—a case that has left South Africa searching for answers.