The Western Cape police have intensified their search in Saldanha Bay, following the emergence of new leads in the case of missing six-year-old Joshlin Smith. Officers, accompanied by several K9 units, are meticulously combing the dunes in the area.
This comes after Reverend June Dolley-Major took to social media, stating she had evidence of the green-eyed girl’s disappearance, but stated police were not taking her seriously. The South African Police Service (SAPS) has confirmed detectives were in the small fishing town to investigate claims made by a member of the community.
Investigation Update
According to Western Cape police spokesperson, Colonel Andrè Traut, no tangible evidence linked to Joshlin Smith has been found. However, SAPS reiterates that all information received is treated with seriousness and thoroughly investigated. Traut said that since Joshlin disappeared, SAPS pursued numerous leads provided by the public relating to her whereabouts and the circumstances surrounding her case.
All information is rigorously assessed for credibility and evidential value, but unfortunately, none has yielded a breakthrough. The investigation into Joshlin Smith’s disappearance remains open and active, despite the sentencing of three accused in May 2024. Detectives continue to follow up on all information, with extensive efforts undertaken both locally and abroad.
Joshlin Smith Foundation
Earlier this month, National Minister of Sports, Arts, and Culture and leader of the Patriotic Alliance (PA), Gayton McKenzie, launched the Patriotic Alliance foundation in the area. At the launch, McKenzie said he believed Joshlin was still alive and would be sharing this information with the police.
Joshlin disappeared on February 19, 2024. She was only six years old at the time of her disappearance. In 2025, her mother, Kelly Smith, her boyfriend, Jacquen ‘Boeta’ Appollis, and their friend, Steveno van Rhyn, were convicted and sentenced for the kidnapping and trafficking of the young girl.
The following are some key points in the case:
- Joshlin Smith went missing on February 19, 2024
- New leads have emerged in the case, prompting a search in Saldanha Bay
- The SAPS is investigating claims made by a member of the community
- The investigation into Joshlin Smith’s disappearance remains open and active
