It’s been one month since six-year-old Joshlin Smith of Saldanha Bay went missing. The police say that while the search continues, the numbers of those involved in the searches have dropped significantly.
IT’S BEEN one month since six-year-old Joshlin Smith of Saldanha Bay went missing. The police say that while the search continues, the numbers of those involved in the searches have dropped significantly.
Police spokesperson Lieutenant-Colonel Malcolm Pojie said the search is being led by the investigating team, based on information gathering and clues that are being followed up.
So far, the police have arrested four people linked to Joshlin’s disappearance. They are: Joshlin’s mother Racquel “Kelly” Smith, her partner Jacquen Appollis, Steveno van Rhyn and Lorentia Lombaard.
Lombaard was the latest person arrested in connection with Joshlin’s disappearance. She appeared in the Vredenburg Magistrate’s Court on Monday.
She was charged with kidnapping and trafficking in persons for the purpose of exploitation.
It is believed that Lombaard made a confession to the police at the time of her arrest. However, it cannot be made public at this time as it forms part of the ongoing investigation.
Smith, Appollis and Van Rhym face charges of human trafficking and kidnapping.
Charges were withdrawn against another person implicated in Joshlin’s disappearance, Phumza Sigaqa, due to a lack of evidence.
The police are yet to release information about the blood-stained clothing found in a field during the search.
For now, Pojie is appealing to community members and “influencers” to refrain from posting unfounded and malicious messages with regards to the investigation on social media platforms.
Anyone with information about the whereabouts of Joshlin is requested to contact their nearest police station or to contact Crime Stop at 08600 10111.
