Explosive Testimonies in Joshlin Smith Case

Evangelist and TikToker Reveal Shocking Claims

SALDANHA BAY:- On Day 9 of the trial concerning the disappearance of six-year-old Joshlin Smith from Saldanha Bay, key testimonies were presented at the Western Cape High Court, currently in session at the White City Multipurpose Centre in Diazville.

Evangelist’s Testimony

Evangelist Nico Steven Coetzee, the twelfth witness, testified about a conversation with Joshlin’s mother, Racquel ‘Kelly’ Smith, in August 2023. Coetzee recounted that Kelly mentioned plans to have her children taken away, referencing a ‘bad family.’ She spoke of awaiting individuals who had previously disappointed her financially, expressing willingness to accept R5,000 if the full R20,000 wasn’t available. Kelly also predicted that in early 2024, Middelpos would resemble a ‘movie scene’ with extensive search activities, suggesting she intended to send her child far away. citeturn0search7

TikToker’s Testimony

Popular TikToker Shakeerah ‘Shakes Warrior’ Ganief testified about her interactions with Kelly during the search for Joshlin.  Ganief stated that Kelly was dismissive and defensive, particularly when inquiries involved her boyfriend, Jacquen ‘Boeta’ Appollis. Ganief also presented videos showing Kelly dancing at a community event shortly after Joshlin’s disappearance, indicating a lack of concern. citeturn0search8

Defense’s Cross-Examination

Kelly’s defense attorney, Rinesh Sivnarain, challenged the credibility of Coetzee and Ganief, suggesting their involvement aimed to gain media attention and increase social media followings. Both witnesses refuted these claims, maintaining that their testimonies were motivated by concern for Joshlin. citeturn0search8

Additional Witnesses

Two more witnesses corroborated Coetzee’s account. His employer, Thersia Kruger, confirmed that Coetzee had shared Kelly’s remarks about an impending ‘movie scene’ in Middelpos. Additionally, Jacques van Zyl, Control Prosecutor at Vredenburg Magistrate’s Court, testified that Coetzee had informed him of Kelly’s alleged plans, noting the timing suggested premeditation. citeturn0search8

Background

Joshlin vanished on February 19, 2024, from her Middelpos home while under Appollis’s care. Appollis admitted to using crystal methamphetamine (‘tik’) with Kelly, their friend Steveno ‘Steffie’ van Rhyn, and former accused turned state witness, Laurentia Lombaard. Kelly, Appollis, and van Rhyn face charges of kidnapping and human trafficking. citeturn0search8

The trial continues as the court examines further evidence and testimonies to uncover the circumstances surrounding Joshlin’s disappearance.