Joshlin Smith: Middelpos residents says community still grappling with unresolved tensions
Wednesday’s court decision has left many feeling that justice remains incomplete.
Saldanha residents protest outside the Vredenburg Magistrates Court after a brief appearance by Kelly Smith and four others. Picture: Kayleen Morgan/EWN
CAPE TOWN - It’s been more than a year since six-year-old Joshlin Smith disappeared and Middelpos residents said the community was still grappling with unresolved tensions.
Wednesday’s court decision has left many feeling that justice remains incomplete.
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Judge Nathan Erasmus denied Kelly Smith, Jacquen Appolis and Steveno van Ryhn's application for leave to appeal their convictions and sentences.
He did, however, grant State witness, Lourentia Lombaard, indemnity from prosecution.
The disappearance of Joshlin continues to cast a long shadow over Middelpos and the surrounding communities.
Residents said the case exposed deep racial tensions that remain unresolved, particularly after the arrest and subsequent release of Phumza Sigaqa.
Resident Natasha Maarman said the lack of unity between races in the area played a role in the case of the missing girl.
"Community-wise? I think they also failed Joshlin and I’m pretty sure that they’ll fail a lot of other children because they don’t stand together."
Maarman said despite the convictions secured for the three accused, she hoped one of them would have a change of heart and reveal information that would help with finding the little girl.