As the trial of Racquel ‘Kelly’ Smith, along with her co-accused Jacquen ‘Boeta’ Appollis and Steven ‘Steffie’ van Rhyn, continues in the half-empty court at the White City Multipurpose Centre in Diazville, Saldanha Bay, a compelling narrative is emerging around the mother of the missing Joshlin Smith. Despite being described as a drug user with a history of rehabilitation, witnesses took the stand to assert that Smith was a dedicated mother to her children.
The trio faces serious charges of kidnapping and human trafficking concerning the disappearance of Joshlin, who was under the care of Appollis when she went missing on February 19, 2024. The court proceedings intensified this week when Detective Constable Refilwe Sekhobe revealed that during an interview with Appollis, it was disclosed that Laurentia Lombaard, who had initially been charged alongside the three, was allegedly smoking drugs with them on the day Joshlin disappeared. Lombaard later turned state witness after the charges against her were dropped.
Among the witnesses was Namhla Tinzi, a neighbour of Smith, who recounted her harrowing experience upon hearing about Joshlin’s disappearance. Tinzi stated she had just returned home from work when Smith called, frantic with concern for her daughter. “I told her I had not seen her and helped her look for Joshlin. I spent about five hours with her and went home before load shedding, which was scheduled for 10pm,” Tinzi explained, noting the distress of the situation. She added that she once again tried to reach Smith the next morning but received no answer.
In a poignant revelation, Natasha Andrews, who had been considering adopting the little girl, expressed her heartbreak over Joshlin’s plight. Andrews shared that she had spent time with Joshlin, often having her over on weekends and holiday breaks, and noted that the chaos of Joshlin’s parents’ relationship raised significant concerns for the child’s welfare. “I wanted to adopt her when I noticed that her parents were always fighting and also her mother was on drugs,” she lamented.
Further testimony came from Carlien Zeegers, who described her empathy for Smith, providing her with food and financial help in tough times. “I felt sorry for Kelly, and I could see what she was going through; I am also a mother,” Zeegers said, observing Smith’s commitment as a mother. On the day of Joshlin’s disappearance, she noted that Smith had come to her home early, stating her other children were unwell.
As the harrowing testimonies continue to unfold, Smith was visibly emotional, sobbing in response to the accounts shared by those who had witnessed her struggles and triumphs as a mother. The court was briefly adjourned to allow her time to regain her composure. The trial continues.