Cape Town – Amanda Smith-Daniels, grandmother of missing six-year-old Joshlin Smith, is reportedly undergoing psychiatric treatment for severe depression following the conviction and life sentencing of her daughter, Kelly Smith, for trafficking Joshlin.
The child went missing on 19 February 2024 from her home in Middelpos, Saldanha Bay.
Kelly claimed she left Joshlin in the care of her boyfriend, Jacquen Appollis, but the child was never seen again.
4/ Amanda Daniels-Smith, Joshlin’s grandmother:
“My heart weighs heavily every morning when I wake my grandchildren…. I have to be at school every day…. I fear something might happen to them too.” She speaks of the panic when they are late#JusticeForJoshlin #StopTrafficking pic.twitter.com/gN6MeVR485— Pinky Khoabane (@pinkykhoabane) May 28, 2025
A year-long investigation led to the conviction of Kelly, Appollis, and their friend Steveno van Rhyn on charges of human trafficking and kidnapping.
A fourth accused, Lourentia “Renz” Lombaard, turned state witness.
A cording to IOL, Smith-Daniels disclosed that she is currently receiving treatment for severe depression at a psychiatric facility.
“I must deal with psychologists and psychiatrists. I have to work on my mental health because it’s too much.
“My pillow is riddled with tears. Every night I lie awake praying for Joshlin,” the report quoted her as saying.
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Compiled by Betha Madhomu
