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Saldanha Bay, Western Cape — The Western Cape High Court is currently hearing final sentencing arguments in one of South Africa’s most distressing child trafficking cases, as prosecutors push for life imprisonment for Kelly Smith, Jacquen Appollis, and Steveno van Rhyn.
The trio were convicted of kidnapping and human trafficking in connection with the high-profile disappearance of six-year-old Joshlin Smith in February 2024—a case that sparked national outrage and intense media attention.
During the ongoing sentencing proceedings in Saldanha Bay, the State has highlighted the severe psychological and societal impact of the crimes, calling for the maximum penalty under South African law.
Experts Testify to Support Harsh Sentencing
A human trafficking expert took the stand, emphasizing the systemic nature and long-term damage caused by such crimes, particularly when they involve vulnerable children. A probation officer also testified, reinforcing the State’s argument that the convicted individuals pose a continuing danger to society and should be permanently removed from public life.
Prosecutors argued that the case demanded “exemplary punishment” both as a deterrent and as recognition of the irreparable harm caused to Joshlin, her family, and the broader community.
Awaiting Sentencing Outcome
As the nation awaits the final judgment, the courtroom has remained tense, with emotional victim impact statements and powerful expert testimony painting a chilling picture of betrayal and brutality.
The fate of the three convicted individuals now rests in the hands of the judge—who must weigh legal standards, expert opinions, and the lingering pain of a community still searching for answers.
