Police are still hunting for answers to explain the disappearance of a child from her Saldanha Bay home two years ago, in a case that haunted South Africans and left the community desperate for closure. 

Joshlin Smith, then six, disappeared on February 19, 2024. Police resumed their search in Saldanha Bay today, following new leads in the case. 

Shortly after she went missing, her mother, Racquel ‘Kelly’ Smith, Jacquen Rowhan Appollis and Steveno Dumaizio van Rhyn were arrested. 

In May 2025, the Western Cape High Court found them guilty on charges of human trafficking and kidnapping. They were handed life sentences.  

Search resumed 

Colonel André Traut, the spokesperson for the Western Cape police, says detectives were in the area today to investigate recent claims made by a community member about Joshlin’s whereabouts. 

“At this stage, no tangible evidence linked to Joshlin Smith has been found. However, SAPS reiterates that all information received is treated seriously and thoroughly investigated,” he adds. 

Numerous leads 

Since her disappearance, SAPS has pursued numerous leads provided by the public relating to her whereabouts and the circumstances surrounding her case. 

Traut says 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,” he adds. 

Despite the sentencing of the three accused, Traut says detectives continue to follow up on all information, with extensive efforts undertaken both locally and abroad. 

Anyone with information is urged to contact Crime Stop on 08600 10111 or use the MySAPS mobile app. 

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