The trial of six-year-old Joshlin Smith’s disappearance took a dramatic turn as evangelist Nico Steven Coetzee continued his testimony on the ninth day of the trial. Coetzee dropped a bombshell, revealing that Joshlin’s mother, Racquel ‘Kelly’ Smith, had confided in him about her plans to have her children taken away.
According to Coetzee, Kelly had said that her family was “bad” and that she intended to have the children removed. When asked who would take the children and care for them, Kelly allegedly remained tight-lipped. Coetzee also testified that Kelly had mentioned waiting for someone who would pay her R20,000, and that she would settle for R5,000 if they didn’t have the full amount.
In another stunning revelation, Coetzee quoted Kelly as saying that Middelpos would resemble a “movie scene” in January or February, with people searching for something but finding nothing. This statement has raised eyebrows, given the circumstances of Joshlin’s disappearance.
Meanwhile, Cape Town TikToker Shakeerah ‘Shakes Warrior’ Ganief testified that Kelly had told her to stop looking for Joshlin, saying that the police should handle the investigation. Ganief described Kelly’s demeanor as “rude” and “defensive,” particularly when she mentioned Kelly’s boyfriend, Jacquen ‘Boeta’ Appollis.
As the trial continues, Kelly’s lawyer has requested time for his client to view video evidence before cross-examining Ganief. Another officer is expected to take the stand and present evidence, shedding more light on the mysterious disappearance of Joshlin Smith.
