The Story of Joshlin Smith: Background & Arrest
Joshlin Smith is a 6years old grade 1 learner from Diazville in Saldanha Bay, Western Cape who went missing on the 19th of February 2024. Several search and rescue teams have been dispatched in search of her, and arrests have been made.
Background
In the morning of February 19, 2024, Joshlin Smith’s mother, Kelly Smith left little Joslin with her boyfriend, Jacquin after she complained of not feeling well and she needed Joshlin Smith to be under the supervision of an adult while she goes to work.
Upon Kelly’s return from work, she was unable to locate either her daughter, Joshlin Smith nor her boyfriend, Jacquin. When she contacted Jacquin who was supposed to know the whereabout of the little girl, Jacquin claimed he had no idea where she is.
Search Party
In the evening of February 19, members of Diazville community rallied to search for Joslin and only ended their search in the 8th day following a number of speculations implicating Joslin’s mother and boyfriend.
Rescue Efforts & Rewards
Immediately the missing case was reported to the police, all resources were deployed in the search of Joshlin Smith, with the Saldanha Bay Municipality offering a R20,000 reward for any information that may lead to the safe return of Joslin.
McKenzie, leader of the Patriotic Alliance (PA) also offered a R100,000 reward for information that will lead to the safe return of Joslin.
The South African Navy also dedicated resources to combing areas where Joshlin Smith might be located.
Arrest
In March of 2024, the police arrested four suspects who might be connected to the disappearance of Joshlin Smith, including. The four made appearances at the Vredenberg Magistrates Court on Thursday, 07 March facing charges in the child’s disappearance.
Confessions
On the 7th of March, 2024, the police revealed that two men have confessed to selling Joshlin Smith for muthi.
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