Allegations of Kidnapping in the Disappearance of Joslin Smith

Kelly Smith alleged that her missing daughter Joslin was kidnapped by Nigerians, a claim revealed to the child’s teacher during a conversation at a petrol station. Testimony highlighted Smith’s fears and the involvement of several suspects in the case. The court is examining Smith’s challenging history and her interactions leading up to Joslin’s disappearance, which further complicate the narrative of the case.

On February 23, 2024, Kelly Smith disclosed to her daughter Joslin’s teacher, Tahirih Edna Maart, her belief that Joslin had been kidnapped by Nigerians. The revelation occurred at a petrol station while Maart was en route to join a search for Joslin, who had been missing since February 19. Smith claimed to have received a call from a Nigerian man indicating that Joslin was on a boat bound for West Africa.

According to Maart’s testimony, Smith spoke softly and expressed fear for her safety, stating, “Teacher, I am scared because [the community] wants to hurt me.” Before exiting the vehicle, Smith made a cryptic remark about an individual named “Boeta,” who is linked to the case, further complicating the narrative of Joslin’s disappearance. All named suspects, including Smith’s partner, Jacquen Appollis, and Steveno van Rhyn, have pleaded not guilty to charges of kidnapping and human trafficking.

The prosecution alleges that Smith had discussed plans as early as August 2023 to have her children taken or sold, with intentions for this to occur in January or February of 2024. Maart, having only taught Joslin for a month, described her as “very neat” and “very quiet.” Joslin was absent from school on the day of her disappearance due to unwashed clothes and slight illness, which Smith had not communicated to Maart.

After Smith reported Joslin missing later that same evening, Maart received alarming messages from concerned parents on February 20, 2024. Upon reaching out to Smith, Maart found her in distress, confirming the loss of her daughter yet abruptly disconnecting during their call, leaving the conversation unresolved.

During the court proceedings, social worker Siliziwe Mbambo testified about Smith’s troubled history, including instances of violence during her pregnancy and issues related to drug use. Smith’s legal counsel indicated discrepancies in the social workers’ reports pertaining to the family and its dynamic. Mbambo defended the accuracy of her testimony, based on the case file compiled by previous social workers.

The court further explored Smith’s living conditions and past abuse from Joslin’s biological father, highlighting the ongoing struggles within Smith’s life, including her reluctance to participate in recovery programs despite attending Alcoholics Anonymous meetings.

The unfolding court case surrounding the disappearance of Joslin Smith reveals complex layers of familial turmoil and allegations of kidnapping. Kelly Smith’s alarming claims of her child being kidnapped and her associated fear form a critical part of the narrative. Witness testimonies and historical context reveal troubling patterns in Smith’s life, suggesting deeper issues at play. As the trial progresses, the intersection of abuse, drug use, and alleged criminal intent will undoubtedly shape the outcomes for all involved parties.

Original Source: mg.co.za