Convictions Secured, But the Mystery — and the Minister’s Fight — Continues
Cape Town, May 5, 2025 — While three people have been convicted in the abduction and trafficking case of missing six-year-old Joshlin Smith, Gayton McKenzie, leader of the Patriotic Alliance and Minister of Sports, Arts, and Culture, has made it clear: the search is far from over.
The Western Cape High Court found Racquel “Kelly” Smith (Joshlin’s mother), her boyfriend Jacquen “Boeta” Appollis, and friend Steveno van Rhyn guilty of kidnapping and human trafficking, following Joshlin’s disappearance from Middelpos, Saldanha Bay, on February 19, 2024.
But in a defiant statement following the verdict, McKenzie reiterated his unwavering belief that Joshlin is still alive. “It’s not over,” he declared, emphasizing that his personal R1 million reward for information remains in place. McKenzie has previously funded helicopters, sniffer dogs, and ground teams in an attempt to find the missing girl.
Rejecting the notion that Joshlin was sold for muthi (traditional medicine), McKenzie has instead pointed fingers at Ayanda Letoni, the ex-boyfriend of state witness Lourentia Lombaard, accusing him of orchestrating the crime — allegations not yet substantiated by police. He also made explosive, unverified claims about the Saldanha Bay mayor’s involvement.
The case has become a lightning rod of public emotion and media attention, particularly due to McKenzie’s controversial social media presence. Lead investigator Captain Wesley Lombard testified that McKenzie’s posts and circulating misinformation — particularly on platforms like TikTok — have disrupted official SAPS efforts. McKenzie, however, insists he only got involved after authorities “gave up” just six days into the investigation.
With the convictions secured, yet Joshlin’s whereabouts still unknown, the nation watches as McKenzie pledges to push forward where the justice system, for now, has reached its limit.
