Police renew search for Joshlin Smith in Saldanha Bay

March 26, 2026 46

Image credit: Executive mayor of Saldanha Andre Truter/Facebook

Police in the Western Cape have descended on Saldanha Bay as a renewed search gets underway for missing seven-year-old Joshlin Smith.

K9 units are combing the area after new information from a community member suggested the child may still be alive.

The then Grade 1 pupil disappeared from her home in Middelpos in February 2024.

Her mother, Kelly Smith, her boyfriend, Jacquen Appollis, and their friend, Steveno van Rhyn, were later found guilty of kidnapping and trafficking the little girl.

The trio was sentenced to life imprisonment for human trafficking, and an additional 10 years for kidnapping.

Among some of the jaw-dropping evidence presented in court is that Kelly sold Joshlin to a sangoma for R20 000. It is also alleged that the child was sold for her beautiful eyes and skin.

PA leader, Gayton McKenzie, has also claimed there may be evidence that the child is still alive, adding that the information will be shared with law enforcement.

Police in the Western Cape say while there is no tangible evidence of Joshlin’s whereabouts, they remain committed to thoroughly investigating any leads presented to them.

“Since her disappearance, SAPS has pursued numerous leads provided by the public relating to her whereabouts and the circumstances surrounding her case. All information is rigorously assessed for credibility and evidential value, but unfortunately, none has yielded a breakthrough.

“The investigation into Joshlin Smith’s disappearance remains open and active, despite the sentencing of three accused in May 2024. Detectives continue to follow up on all information, with extensive efforts undertaken both locally and abroad.”

#sapsWC [UPDATE: JOSHLIN SMITH INVESTIGATION] #SAPS detectives are currently in Saldanha Bay to investigate recent claims made by a community member regarding the alleged whereabouts of missing child, #JoshlinSmith.

At this stage, no tangible evidence linked to Joshlin Smith has… pic.twitter.com/nKk6llt482

— SA Police Service 🇿🇦 (@SAPoliceService) March 26, 2026

Social media has reacted to the renewed search for Joshlin.

Three people serving life sentences for kidnapping and trafficking Joshlin Smith. And still no child. The convictions answered the legal question. They did not answer the one that matters most – where is she. A renewed search in Saldanha Bay two years on suggests investigative…

— BCPS (@BCPS19) March 26, 2026