Court Hears Allegations of Kidnapping in Joslin Smith Case

Kelly Smith, mother of missing Joslin Smith, alleged that her daughter was kidnapped by Nigerians. Teacher Tahirih Maart detailed Smith’s confession during a chance encounter. The case involves accusations of kidnapping and human trafficking against Smith and two accomplices. Smith has a history of threats and drug use, impacting her parenting and highlighting past abusive relationships.

In the Western Cape high court, a significant testimony was presented which revealed that Kelly Smith, the mother of missing child Joslin Smith, alleged that her daughter was kidnapped by Nigerians. Teacher Tahirih Edna Maart recounted that Smith made this claim during a chance encounter at a petrol station on February 23, 2024, as she was preparing to participate in a search for Joslin who has been missing since February 19, 2024.

Maart, who teaches at Diazville Primary School, was surprised when Smith approached her, speaking softly and asking for a confidential conversation. She disclosed having received a call from a Nigerian man who instructed her to ‘play quickly,’ suggesting that Joslin was aboard a boat heading to West Africa. When inquired about the identity of the caller, Smith expressed her fear about her community’s reaction, stating, “Teacher, I am scared because [the community] wants to hurt me.”

Smith’s comments included a concerning note regarding “Boeta,” the nickname of one of the accused, Jacquen Appollis. Appollis, alongside Steveno van Rhyn, is facing charges of kidnapping and human trafficking, to which all parties have pleaded not guilty. The case further implicates that Smith had indicated a plan to either sell or have her children taken away as early as August 2023, targeting January or February 2024 for execution.

During court proceedings, teacher Maart elaborated on her brief acquaintance with Joslin, whom she described as quiet and neat. She revealed that Joslin had not attended school on the day of her disappearance due to unwashed clothes or feeling unwell. Despite Maart’s attempts to inquire about Joslin’s absence that day, she did not receive an explanation from Smith, who subsequently reported her daughter missing that night.

After receiving alarming messages from other parents, Maart attempted to reach Smith early the following morning, only to find her distraught and confirming Joslin’s disappearance. During a later call that day, Smith appeared extremely upset, sharing her frustrations about the police report but not providing additional information about Joslin’s whereabouts.

Additionally, social worker Siliziwe Mbambo testified regarding Smith’s troubled history, which included past threats to her son and challenges related to drug use. While Smith’s attorney contested the validity of these claims, Mbambo stood by the records compiled by previous case managers, asserting their credibility. The court has also heard of Smith’s struggles against abusive relationships, particularly highlighting her difficult past with Joslin’s biological father, who allegedly assaulted her for years. Despite attending support groups, Smith had reportedly resisted deeper intervention for her issues.

The ongoing court proceedings have unveiled troubling details regarding Kelly Smith and her connection to her missing daughter, Joslin. Allegations of Nigerian kidnapping emerged, alongside a disturbing history of threats and substance abuse. The implications of Smith’s past relationships and behaviors raise significant concerns regarding the well-being of her children, as the investigation continues to unfold.

Original Source: mg.co.za