Govt applauds hefty sentences handed down in Joshlin Smith trial, swift police action in Olorato Mongale murder

CAPE TOWN - Government has applauded the hefty sentences handed down by the Western Cape High Court to the accused in the Joshlin Smith kidnapping and human trafficking matter on Thursday morning.

The child's mother, Kelly Smith, and her accomplices, Jacquen Appollis and Steveno van Rhyn, were all found guilty of selling the then-six-year-old child for money and have been sentenced to life in prison.

But the child’s whereabouts remain unknown.

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Government spokesperson, Minister in the Presidency Khumbudzo Ntshavheni, said it was now up to the police to find the child.

"While this sentencing brings a measure of justice, it’s a bittersweet moment. We remain steadfast in our commitment to uncovering the truth and ensuring law enforcement continues to pursue every possible lead to find Joshlin."

Speaking at a post-Cabinet briefing at Parliament on Thursday, Ntshavheni also praised the police for the swift arrest of suspects linked to the murder of a Johannesburg woman, Olorato Mongale.

Police have seized the vehicle used to dump her body on the side of the road in Lombardy West after she was ostensibly picked up for a date on Sunday.

Three more suspects are still being sought.

"We commend the South African Police Service for the speedy work in investigating and making arrests in the cases of gender-based violence and femicide. We extend government’s condolences to her family and her friends."