In a distressing turn of events, two individuals have reportedly admitted to the horrific act of selling six-year-old Joshlin Smith for purposes of muti, following intense questioning by law enforcement officers. The young girl’s absence has been a growing concern, with her whereabouts unknown for over two weeks. This case has plunged the community into a deep search for answers and has now drawn the attention of four suspects under police scrutiny.
Extensive Search Efforts for Joshlin Smith
As the investigation widens, the Western Cape police have confirmed the interrogation of four people in connection to Joshlin’s disappearance. This detail comes from Brigadier Novela Potelwa, the spokesperson for the Western Cape police, who mentioned that the investigative team has conducted several interviews and visited multiple locations across the West Coast town in hopes of uncovering vital information.
“It is envisaged that as the investigation unfolds, light will be shed as to her whereabouts or what happened to her,” stated Potelwa.
The suspects, comprising two men and two women, range in age from 26 to 34. Their questioning is part of a broader effort to piece together the events leading to Joshlin’s vanishing.
Community Speculation and Parental Denial
Amidst the unfolding investigation, Joshlin’s mother, Kelly Smith, and her partner, Jacquin Appolis, find themselves at the center of accusations from certain community members. These allegations suggest their involvement in the young girl’s disappearance, a claim both strongly refute.
Adding another layer to this complex situation, Joshlin’s father, Jose Emke, has voiced concerns that her disappearance might be linked to unresolved “drug debts” attributed to her mother. Both Smith and Appolis have acknowledged their past struggles with Crystal Meth (locally known as Tik) but assert their sobriety in recent weeks.
The Path Forward in the Investigation
Western Cape Police Commissioner Thembisile Patekile has outlined the next steps in the search for Joshlin. The focus remains on following every lead generated from the interrogation process, including the harrowing allegation of her being sold.
“The questioning will lead us now to where, whatever leads that we find, we’ll follow those leads, even the fact that there are people alleging that this child was sold, that we will follow.”
As the case gains a high-profile status and captures international attention, the responsibility has been transferred to the Western Cape detectives division for further investigation.
This case not only highlights the urgent need for resolution and justice for Joshlin but also underscores the broader challenges faced by communities and law enforcement in addressing crimes of this nature. The community awaits with bated breath for any developments that might bring closure to this unsettling episode.
Four people including two men and two women have been taken in for questioning by Western Cape detectives as the search for 6-year-old Joslin Smith continues. The Provincial Commissioner of WC, Lt Gen Thembisile Patekile provides an update 👇🏻 pic.twitter.com/d3b8yeI4NM
— Athlenda Mathe (@AthlendaM) March 6, 2024
