Police say missing persons case to find Joshlin Smith still being probed
The missing girl's mother, Kelly Smith, Jacquen Appollis, and Steveno van Rhyn were handed life sentences on Thursday for the child's disappearance.
Community members gathered outside the Vredenburg Magistrates court on 15 July 2024 as missing Joshlin Smith's mother and three others accused of being involved in her disappearance made another appearance. Picture: Kayleen Morgan/Eyewitness News
SALDANHA BAY - Police said the missing persons case to find Joshlin Smith is still being investigated.
The missing girl's mother, Kelly Smith, Jacquen Appollis, and Steveno van Rhyn were handed life sentences on Thursday for the child's disappearance.
ALSO READ:
- Joshlin Smith: Sentences fit the crime, says Save the Children South Africa
- Joshlin Smith trial: NPA says protecting children is everyone's responsibility
Joshlin was six years old when she went missing from her Middelpos home in Saldanha in February 2024.
Western Cape Police Commissioner Thembisile Patekile said the search for Joshlin continues.
Patekile said police will not rest until they find out what happened to her.
Smith, Appollis, and Van Rhyn were found guilty of kidnapping and human trafficking related to her disappearance.
Former accused turned State witness Lourencia Lombaard told the court that Smith sold Joshlin to a sangoma for R20,000.
Speaking after sentencing was handed down in Saldanha on Thursday, Patekile said local police are still working with Interpol to locate the missing girl.
"We are continuing day and night looking for Joshlin. We've been outside the country. We are with the Interpol and policing agencies around the world."
Patekile thanked the community for playing a pivotal role in bringing Smith, Appollis, and Van Rhyn to book.