Joslin Smith disappearance: South African mother and boyfriend charged with trafficking
The mother of a six-year-old girl who vanished in South Africa on February 19 has been accused of human trafficking and kidnapping.
Kelly Smith, along with her boyfriend, Jacquen Appollis, and two others, were charged after being arrested. Joslin, Ms. Smith's daughter, disappeared near Cape Town.
The four accused appeared in court but did not enter a plea. A large crowd gathered outside the court, demanding Joslin's return.
The prosecution claims Ms. Smith instructed Mr. Appollis and another person to sell Joslin to a traditional healer for 20,000 rand. Despite extensive search efforts involving the navy, drones, and sniffer dogs, Joslin has not been found. Bloodied clothing was discovered in the area where she disappeared.
Ms. Smith and her co-accused, including a traditional healer, are in custody until March 13, awaiting a bail hearing. They plan to apply for legal aid.
Some traditional healers in South Africa use body parts for potions, a practice widely condemned. Despite her disappearance, Ms. Smith remains hopeful of finding her daughter.
Frantic community members and the mayor have been involved in the search.
A reward of 100,000 rand has been offered for information on Joslin's whereabouts. Mr. Appollis, who was caring for Joslin when she disappeared, denies involvement in her disappearance.
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