Cape Town, South Africa — The courtroom fell silent today as Natasha Andrews’ victim impact statement was read aloud during the sentencing of Kelly Smith, Jacquen Appollis, and Steveno van Rhyn—three individuals connected to the heartbreaking disappearance of six-year-old Joshlin Smith.
What followed was a deeply emotional moment that shook the gallery, leaving Andrews and many others in tears. Her statement, filled with sorrow, longing, and unshaken love, gave voice to the unrelenting agony endured by those closest to Joshlin.
A Mother’s Grief Echoes Through the Court
Describing Joshlin as “a child of light,” Andrews revealed her deep hope of one day adopting the little girl. The absence, she said, continues to haunt her every waking moment.
“My heart is still searching. I wake up and hope today is the day I hear her voice again,” the statement read.
A video presentation accompanied the reading, intensifying the emotional weight in the courtroom. Images of Joshlin smiling, laughing, and playing underscored the human cost behind the headlines—a stark reminder that behind every missing person case is a devastated circle of loved ones.
Sentencing Amid Sorrow
The statement was part of victim impact proceedings during the sentencing of the three accused, whose involvement in the child’s disappearance has drawn national attention and widespread outrage.
Though legal justice is still unfolding, emotional justice was sought—and powerfully expressed—through Andrews’ words.
As the courtroom session ended, the message was clear: the pain of Joshlin’s disappearance is far from over. For Natasha Andrews and many others, the search is not only for justice—but for closure, healing, and answers that have yet to come.
