Ignite Public Fury as State Witness Walks Free
Reporter – George April
Cape Town:– The verdict in the disappearance and trafficking of six-year-old Joshlin Smith has divided the nation.
Racquel “Kelly” Smith, along with her boyfriend Jacquen “Boeta” Appollis and friend Steveno van Rhyn, were each handed life imprisonment plus 10 years following shocking testimony that Joshlin was allegedly sold to a traditional healer for her “eyes and skin.”
The emotional intensity of the case grew further when a state witness, Lourentia “Renz” Lombaard, walked free after the court granted her full indemnity in exchange for testimony, that helped secure the convictions.
–Public Reaction Reflects Deep Frustration
Outside the courthouse, tensions ran high. “How can justice be done when someone walks free, while a child disappears forever?” lamented one community leader.
Another resident described the broader crisis of trust: “This is not just about Joshlin. Crime is spiralling out of control in South Africa, and people are losing faith in the system.”
– Voices from Social Media
On Facebook, reactions to the ruling ranged from praise for the judge’s reasoning to outright anger:
Sister Anny: “I don’t agree with this judgement. She also played a role in Joshlin’s disappearance. She failed her big time since she knew what that evil mother was up to. This is not right.”
Amelia Conradie Sterrenberg: “Mixed emotions about the ruling, but this is purely from a human perspective. The judge has shown empathy, integrity and logic throughout the trial. I still believe the full truth has not been revealed, but I will never stop praying that someone with first-hand knowledge will be moved by the Holy Spirit.”
(These comments reflect the personal opinions of the individuals quoted.)
– Legal Experts Point to a Broken System
Commentators say the stark contrast in sentencing, life for some, complete freedom for another – underscores long-standing concerns:
– Lack of transparency in plea deals and indemnities.
The perception that media attention or public outrage may influence prosecutorial and judicial decisions.
–Why This Story Matters
This is more than one case, it is a crisis of confidence in South Africa’s justice system.
It highlights:
Disparities between severe punishment in high-profile cases and leniency in others.
The ongoing pain for Joshlin’s family and community in the absence of a conviction for her disappearance.
The urgent need for transparency, accountability, and equal justice for all.
If you have witnessed or experienced injustice, big or small, don’t stay silent. Speak out. Let’s hold the system accountable and ensure every voice is heard.
