Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Vincent Cruywagen
Published on 2024-03-07 12:29:53
Racquel Chantel Smith, also known as Kelly, and her boyfriend, Jacquin Appollis, have been charged with trafficking in persons for the purpose of exploitation and kidnapping. They, along with co-accused Steveno van Rhyn and Phuma Sigaqa, appeared in the Vredenburg Magistrates’ Court. The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) has assigned senior advocate Aradhana Heeramum to handle the case. The charges include trafficking in persons and kidnapping related to the disappearance of Joshlin.
Joshlin went missing on 19 February in Diazville, Saldanha. Her mother last saw her when she left for work, leaving her in the care of her boyfriend. When she returned home, Joshlin was gone. The search for Joshlin continued, with police even sifting through a refuse dump in Saldanha Bay.
After the court proceedings, Western Cape MEC for police oversight and community safety Reagen Allen expressed hope that they were one step closer to finding Joshlin or uncovering what happened to her. Both he and Acting MEC for social development Nomafrench Mbombo emphasized the importance of locating Joshlin and getting closure, even if it meant finding her deceased.
Western Cape Police Commissioner Thembisile Patekile reiterated the commitment to finding Joshlin and warned against interfering with the investigation. He mentioned the potential consequences under the Cybercrime Act for spreading false information.
The accused have indicated their intention to seek legal representation, and the case has been remanded for bail information. Daily Maverick has clarified the use of the name “Joshlin” in accordance with the charge sheet.
Overall, the community and authorities are determined to find Joshlin and seek justice for her. The search for the missing child continues, with efforts focused on uncovering the truth behind her disappearance. The case remains unresolved, with the hope of bringing closure to the concerning situation surrounding Joshlin’s disappearance.
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