State prosecutor Zelda Swanepoel has publicly stated that she believes missing child Joshlin Smith is still alive.
What Zelda Swanepoel said about Joshlin Smith
Her remarks were made during an online webinar hosted by the National Freedom Network (NFN), which was held shortly after the convicted kidnappers and traffickers involved in the case filed applications to appeal their life sentences.
Joshlin disappeared on 19 February 2024 in Saldanha, a town on the west coast of South Africa. Despite extensive searches, her body has never been found.
During the webinar, Swanepoel explained the basis for her belief:
“We have done a comprehensive search in Saldanha of all the exhibits. Everything that was found in all of those dunes, all the bones, all the clothing, was analysed, [and] there were no positive DNA results found on anything.”
She added, “I’m convinced that she is still alive. However, I don’t know where she is. I can only hope we find her.”
Joshlin’s mother, Racquel Smith (also known as Kelly), along with Jacquen Appollis (Boeta) and Steveno van Rhyn, were convicted earlier this year of kidnapping and trafficking in connection with the girl’s disappearance.
On the day following their filing for leave to appeal the court’s decision, the NFN webinar took place.
The National Freedom Network, established in 2011, is a South African group aimed at strengthening the fight against human trafficking by connecting various organisations and stakeholders working on the issue.
Swanepoel also addressed the legal pathway should new information emerge.
“Yes, the case has been finalised,” she said.
“If we now receive any other evidence or information… as to who Joshlin was sold to or delivered to, and we find that person, we find the exploiters, we will still be able to prosecute all of those people.”
She clarified that such a situation would lead to a new case, based on fresh evidence and new evaluations.
“Our test is if there is a reasonable prospect of successful prosecution before we go to court.”
Boitumelo Boshupeng of Legal Aid South Africa, which represents the three convicted individuals, confirmed:
“We can only confirm that our clients have shown interest in lodging appeals in this matter and we are not in a position to comment any further.”
Joshlin’s case has captured national attention, with her whereabouts still unknown and no conclusive forensic evidence found linking remains or clothing to her.
The prosecution’s belief in her continued survival offers a glimmer of hope for her possible recovery.
