The residence where six-year-old Joshlin Smith previously resided in Middelpos, Saldanha, with her mother, Racquel “Kelly” Smith, is now a ruin after Smith’s guilty verdict concerning her role in the abduction and exploitation of her own child.
Smith received the conviction on Friday, along with her partner Jacques Jacquen ‘Boeta’ Appollis, and their associate Steveno ‘Steffie’ van Rhyn.
Police representative, Lieutenant Colonel Malcolm Pojie, verified that the Middelpos property was set ablaze on Friday.
“Saldanha SAPS has opened an arson inquiry following the devastation of Kelly Smith’s home by fire. An adult woman is currently being interviewed,” stated Pojie.
Judge Nathan Erasmus presented the much-awaited decision at the White City Multipurpose Centre in Diazville, concluding a deeply disturbing case that has impacted the West Coast region and drawn widespread interest.
The courtroom audience reacted with jubilation as Erasmus officially acknowledged that Joshlin had been traded.
Joshlin was initially reported missing from her Middelpos home on February 19, 2024, triggering a widespread search and a lengthy inquiry that led to the arrest of the three individuals.
Erasmus indicated that the case will return to Saldanha for the sentencing phase.
The defendants are anticipated to remain in custody before the sentencing takes place.
Speaking outside the courthouse, Western Cape Police Commissioner, General Thembisile Patekile, emphasized that the effort to locate Joshlin remains ongoing, and officers will persist in their search for the girl with green eyes.
