Here is what happened in court today. Images: SAPS/ GaytonMkenzie/Facebook
Stun grenades and tear gas was used to disperse an angry crowd ahead of the bail application of Joslin Smith’s mother and three others.
Here is what happened in court today. Images: SAPS/ GaytonMkenzie/Facebook
Police used stun grenades and tear gas to disperse an angry crowd on Wednesday ahead of the bail application of Joslin Smith’s mother and three others.
An angry crowd of hundreds of community members has gathered outside the Vredenburg Magistrates Court in support of missing six-year-old Joslin Smith.
The four people, Jacquen Rowhan Appollis, Steveno Dumaizio van Rhyn, Racquel Chantel Smith (Kelly), and Phumza Sigaqa, are expected back in court on Wednesday in connection with the disappearance of Joslin.
All four face charges of trafficking persons for exploitation and kidnapping.
The petition, a Change.org petition, was started by June Major five days ago.
“We demand that bail be denied to the four suspects currently held in custody related to Joslin’s case. This should extend to any other individuals who may be implicated as investigations proceed. We insist on thoroughness; no stone must be left unturned until Joslin is found,”
the petition said.
It furthermore said the denial of bail would send a strong message that ‘such atrocities will not be tolerated within our society.’
At the time of publishing, the petition has gathered about 22 451 signatures.
Joslin, from Diazville in Saldanha Bay, went missing on 19 February 2024 while in the care of her mother’s boyfriend.
Meanwhile, community members plan to attend the court appearance dressed in white t-shirts on Wednesday.
So, what do we know about the case so far?
Here are the latest developments in the search: