South African police have refuted claims circulating on social media regarding the discovery of the body of six-year-old Joshlin Smith, who has been missing since February 2024. The denial comes as a local pastor alleges that potential evidence in the case has not received adequate attention from law enforcement.
Search Continues, Questions Raised
Joshlin Smith disappeared from the Middelpos informal settlement in Saldanha Bay, sparking widespread concern and volunteer search efforts. Despite extensive investigations, she remains missing. Her mother, Kelly Smith, along with Jacquen “Boeta” Appollis and Steveno “Steffie” van Rhyn, were sentenced in May of last year to life imprisonment for human trafficking and a further ten years for kidnapping.
Police spokesperson Captain FC van Wyk cautioned against the dissemination of unverified information, stating, “We see on this basis, as a law enforcement agency, that we wish to caution social media users against posting unverified information about this.”
Pastor Alleges Lack of Follow-Up
Reverend June Dolley-Major responded to reports that her statements were misrepresented, clarifying that she did not claim to have found Joshlin Smith’s remains. However, she alleges that items discovered, which she believes exhibited signs of blood and decomposition, were not thoroughly investigated. According to Dolley-Major, one item was turned over to police, but no statement was taken and no follow-up action occurred.
Dolley-Major further claims the item was placed in a public park, where a trained cadaver dog reportedly reacted to it. She stated, “If there is nothing to be found, then let the proper forensic processes confirm that. But to ignore it entirely is not acceptable.” She too indicated that she previously contacted Major General Thembisile Patekile and Major General Patrick Mquashalala regarding her concerns, but no action was taken.
Police have not responded to questions regarding the receipt, processing, or investigation of the items described by Reverend Dolley-Major, nor have they commented on whether any statements were taken in connection with her claims.
Frequently Asked Questions
When did Joshlin Smith disappear?
Joshlin Smith disappeared in February 2024 from the Middelpos informal settlement in Saldanha Bay.
Who has been convicted in connection with Joshlin Smith’s disappearance?
Kelly Smith, Jacquen “Boeta” Appollis, and Steveno “Steffie” van Rhyn were sentenced to life imprisonment for human trafficking and 10 years for kidnapping.
What is the police’s current stance on claims about Joshlin Smith’s body being found?
Police have dismissed claims that Joshlin Smith’s body has been found and cautioned against the spread of unverified information on social media.
What steps might be taken next in the search for Joshlin Smith is uncertain. Police will re-examine previously investigated leads, or that novel information will emerge from the public. Further investigation into the claims made by Reverend Dolley-Major could also occur, though police have not indicated whether they will do so.
