Cape Town – The Western Cape High Court is expected to deliver judgment on Friday at the White City Multipurpose Centre in Diazville in the high-profile Joshlin Smith kidnapping trial.
Six-year-old Joshlin went missing from her home in Saldanha Bay on 19 February 2024, sparking a widespread search and major investigation.
Her mother, Racquel ‘Kelly’ Smith, her boyfriend Jacquen ‘Boeta’ Appollis, and their friend Steveno ‘Steffie’ van Rhyn have been charged with kidnapping and human trafficking, but all pleaded not guilty.
The trial began on 3 March, with closing arguments concluded on Wednesday.
The case has drawn significant public attention, with many planning to attend the judgment, including those who participated in early search efforts.
Judge Nathan Erasmus, who has presided over the trial, anticipates a large turnout and emphasised that seating will prioritise the accused and victims’ families — no special treatment will be given to politicians.
Charges against a fifth accused were dropped, while another suspect turned State witness.
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Compiled by Betha Madhomu
