The disappearance of seven-year-old Joslin Smith has left the Saldanha Bay community reeling, and the latest developments in the case have only deepened the heartbreak.
On Monday, March 3, Kelly Smith—Joslin’s mother—along with her partner, Jacquin “Boeta” Apollis, and a friend, Steveno van Rhyn, faced their first day in court.
Despite the serious charges of child trafficking and kidnapping, the trio pleaded not guilty.
A Missing Child and Disturbing Allegations
Joslin vanished on February 19, 2024, and to this day, there has been no trace of her.
Authorities allege that Kelly Smith and her co-accused sold the child to support their drug addiction.
The case has sent shockwaves through South Africa, with many struggling to comprehend how a mother could be involved in such a crime.
Reports have also surfaced that while in custody, Kelly suffered a miscarriage, further complicating an already tragic situation.
Court Proceedings Begin with Community Outrage
The trial is being held at the White City Multipurpose Centre in Saldanha Bay, a venue chosen to accommodate the large number of concerned locals eager to follow the case. Judge Nathan Erasmus is presiding over the proceedings.
According to her statement, Kelly realized her daughter was missing in the afternoon but only reported it later that evening, raising suspicions about her involvement.
During the trial’s first testimony, SAP Constable Yanga Gongotha shared troubling details.
He stated that when Kelly reported Joslin’s disappearance, she showed little to no concern.
Instead, she was more interested in tracking down her boyfriend than her missing child.
“She didn’t appear as someone worried about the disappearance of the child.
The most important thing for her was for us to get hold of the person who was looking after the child. The boyfriend. Not the child,” Gongotha testified.
A Mother’s Shocking Behavior in Court
Perhaps what has shocked the public most is Kelly Smith’s demeanor during the trial.
Before court was in session, she was seen laughing and joking with co-accused Steveno van Rhyn, seemingly unfazed by the gravity of the charges against her.
Dressed in a floral shirt and jeans, she casually interacted with members of the public, further fueling public outrage.
After court adjourned, Kelly was spotted carrying a bag of KFC and was even caught on camera asking an acquaintance to buy her chips and chocolate.
Her words—“See you tomorrow”—were met with disbelief from those who believe she should be consumed with concern for her missing daughter.
Public Outrage Grows on Social Media
South Africans have taken to social media to express their anger and disbelief at Kelly’s behavior.
Many are disturbed by her apparent lack of remorse and her carefree attitude.
One user, @ericascheeperssam, commented, “She acts like nothing has happened.
Like she has come from visiting someone.”
Another, @mischas_world, wrote, “Thinking of how scared Joslin is. She’s crying for help.
Yet her mother is well-fed and requesting chocolate. No remorse whatsoever.”
The sentiment was echoed by @sharon_anne, who simply asked, “The audacity! Where is Joslin?”
What’s Next for the Trial?
As the trial unfolds, the focus remains on finding justice for Joslin Smith.
While the accused maintain their innocence, the evidence presented will determine their fate.
The public continues to demand answers, and for many, the only real resolution will come when Joslin is found.