Social Worker testifies against Joshlin Smith’s mother in human trafficking trial! A social worker testified in the Western Cape High Court on Tuesday, revealing that Joshlin Smith‘s mother, Kelly Smith, refused assistance from social services after her daughter went missing.
The case, which has drawn nationwide attention, involves allegations that Smith and two co-accused—Jacquen Appollis and Stevano van Rhyn—sold Joshlin to an unknown woman.
Joshlin’s Disappearance
Joshlin Smith, a young girl from Saldanha Bay, was reported missing in 2024. Her disappearance sparked a massive search effort, with authorities and community members rallying to locate her. However, the case took a dark turn when investigators uncovered evidence suggesting she may have been kidnapped and trafficked.
Smith, along with Appollis and Van Rhyn, is now on trial for child trafficking and kidnapping.
A Troubled Past
During her testimony, social worker Siliziwe Mbambo revealed disturbing details about Smith’s past, particularly her long history of drug use.
Mbambo told the court that Smith was using drugs while pregnant with Joshlin, raising concerns about her fitness as a mother.
She further explained that Smith’s struggles with substance abuse had been ongoing for years, affecting her other children as well.
“In 2016, Smith’s eldest child was already living with her grandmother because she was being neglected,” Mbambo testified.
A Fractured Family
By 2017, Smith’s drug problems had led to further consequences.
“Her grandmother eventually kicked her out of the house because she was still using drugs,” Mbambo said.
With nowhere to go and struggling with addiction, Smith’s inability to care for her children became increasingly apparent.
Refusing Help After Joshlin Went Missing
When Joshlin disappeared in 2024, Mbambo and the Department of Social Development attempted to offer Smith help, including temporary housing in a shelter.
However, Smith refused, telling social workers she wanted to focus on searching for her missing daughter instead.
“She refused to book herself into a shelter,” Mbambo stated.
Social Services Step In
With growing concerns over Smith’s fitness as a parent, the Department of Social Development intervened.
Mbambo testified that Smith’s two remaining children were eventually placed in foster care to protect them from potential neglect and harm.
The Human Trafficking Allegations
While the details of Joshlin’s disappearance remain unclear, prosecutors believe that Smith, Appollis, and Van Rhyn were involved in selling the child to an unknown woman.
The allegations have shocked the country, with many questioning how a mother could be implicated in the trafficking of her own daughter.
Public Outrage and the Fight for Justice
Joshlin’s case has sparked outrage, with activists and child protection groups calling for stricter measures against human trafficking.
The court proceedings continue, with further testimonies expected to shed light on the events leading up to Joshlin’s disappearance.
As the trial unfolds, the country watches closely, hoping for justice for Joshlin and for those responsible to be held accountable.
