Kelly Smith, convicted of kidnapping and human trafficking in connection with the disappearance of her six‑year‑old daughter, continues to deny any role in the child’s disappearance, an Anglican priest who visited her at the Worcester Women’s Correctional Facility said.
Prison visit highlights unresolved questions
The priest, June Dolley‑Major, told reporters she met Smith three weeks ago after the prisoner requested a visit for Holy Communion and prayer. Dolley‑Major said Smith appeared in reasonable spirits and repeatedly asked about her other children, whom she has not seen for some time.
Smith is serving a life sentence together with Jacquin “Boeta” Appollis and Steveno van Rhyn after their convictions for kidnapping and human trafficking in relation to the disappearance of Joshlin, who was last seen in Middelpos, Saldanha Bay, on 19 February 2024. Joshlin, then a Grade 1 learner at Diazville Primary School, has not been found despite extensive searches.
The South African Police Service (SAPS) has said the investigation into Joshlin’s disappearance remains ongoing, even after the convictions. Dolley‑Major said their conversation covered unresolved matters and what she described as inconsistencies in Smith’s accounts, including shifting narratives about the conduct of her co‑accused and questions around material recovered during searches.
- Convicted persons: Kelly Smith (mother), Jacquin “Boeta” Appollis, Steveno van Rhyn.
- Location of disappearance: Middelpos, Saldanha Bay.
- Date last seen: 19 February 2024.
- Current status: Smith and two co‑accused serving life sentences; SAPS investigation still open.
Allegations about possible burial site and forensic leads
Members of the search effort have raised concerns about items they say were recovered at a potential burial site beneath concrete slabs. According to Dolley‑Major’s account of her discussions with Smith, searchers alleged discovery of rope bearing what appeared to be blood, a mattress fragment that triggered cadaver dogs, clothing believed to have belonged to Smith and plastic bags with a strong odour. Activists and searchers also alleged that the area was later treated with industrial acid.
"She continues to maintain that she had nothing to do with Joshlin's disappearance," Dolley‑Major said, according to reporting.
Dolley‑Major said she discussed those alleged findings with Smith and questioned inconsistencies in Smith’s statements, including changing versions that implicated or exonerated her co‑accused. She also said Appollis and Van Rhyn had been at odds while incarcerated and had been separated after reportedly fighting over Joshlin.
SAPS has previously confirmed the probe into Joshlin’s disappearance is ongoing. Authorities have not publicly confirmed details of the alleged items reported by searchers or whether such items produced usable forensic evidence. The case remains sensitive and subject to active investigative work.
Prison life and support networks
Dolley‑Major described Smith’s daily routine in custody as including Bible study, sewing and participation in modelling programmes run by the correctional facility. The visit provided a rare window into Smith’s life behind bars and her continuing protestations of innocence.
Community members, search volunteers and activists have remained engaged with the case since Joshlin’s disappearance, driven by the lack of closure for the family and wider public concern. The convictions of Smith, Appollis and Van Rhyn addressed criminal responsibility for kidnapping and human trafficking, but have not resolved the central unanswered question of where Joshlin is.
As the SAPS continues investigative work, questions linger about the handling of alleged forensic sites, the chain of evidence and whether further examinations could yet identify Joshlin’s whereabouts or produce additional charges. The outcome of those enquiries will be significant for the family, the local community of Saldanha Bay and public confidence in the criminal justice process.
