In the ongoing search for six-year-old Joshlin Smith, who disappeared from her Diazville home in Saldahna Bay on 19 February, the hope remains that she will be found unharmed and reunited with her loved ones.
This is as the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) and the South African Police Service (SAPS) continue their investigations into the little girl’s disappearance, and the four accused remain behind bars.
Jacques Appolis (Joshlin’s mother’s boyfriend), Racquel Smith (Joshlin’s mother), Steveno Van Rhyn and Lorentia Lombard appeared in the Vredenburg Magisrates court on Monday. At that appearance, the prosecution requested a postponement of the proceedings to 15 July to allow for further investigation. The four accused will remain in custody until then.
“Senior State Adv Aradhana Heeramun told the court that police were following all the leads and the investigation was ongoing. Adv Heeramun confirmed that the State has received a forensic report and cellphone data downgrade and they are busy being analysed.” said NPA spokesperson, Eric Ntabazalila
Western Cape Police Oversight and Community Safety MEC, Reagen Allen, raised concern about the spread of misinformation surrounding the case. He particularly calling out politicians. Such action he condemned as “disrespectful and unbecoming”.
“I regard those who are doing so as morally corrupt and unfit to lead anyone in society, as they have weaponised a young girl’s tragic disappearance. There has already been one individual who not only had to flee the area, but he also lost his small business due to the false accusations levelled against him.”
Allen has however extended thanks to those who worked together in the search for Joshlin.
“My sincere gratitude goes to my colleagues across the Western Cape Government and the various entities, organisations, governments law enforcement agencies, SAPS and the broader community who are continuing to come together in an effort to find young Joslin.”
