Western Cape Police have scaled down their search for missing 6-year-old Joslin Smith.
The little girl disappeared from her home in the Middelpos Informal Settlement, in Diazville in Saldanha on 19 February 2024.
Authorities say they have pulled back resources, as there is no trace of the child, although all avenues and resources have been exhausted. Lieutenant Colonel Malcolm Pojie explains:
“The investigation team are still working around the clock to follow upon all information received from various sources,” says Pojie.
Have you seen Joslin Smith!!#helpbringjoslinhome#missinginsa#pascoeinvestigationsptyltd
MISSING CHILD ALERT: Joslin Smith 7Yrs 19 February 2024. SAPS SALDANHA WC. pic.twitter.com/q4PKSURRnG
— Missing in SA (@MissingsInSA) February 21, 2024
Police have also added their voice to the flurry of fake news and unconfirmed reports that have been doing the rounds on social media platforms:
“We want to urge the public to refrain from posting unfounded and unverified rumours about the search, the possible discovery of Joslin and those allegedly involved in her disappearance. These rumours and allegations have a detrimental effect on the investigation and resources dispatched as it derails the investigation and exhausts valuable resources,” adds Pojie.
An appeal has also been issued to residents of surrounding areas not to flock to Saldanha, to offer their help to search for the missing girl.
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- Search for missing 6-year-old Joslin Smith continues
“Door-to-door searches were conducted and concluded on Saturday and the investigating team will still respond to substantial and constructive information received. The investigation continues,” concludes Pojie.
