Authorities have intensified their efforts to locate missing six-year-old Joshlin Smith, with a significant development made in the ongoing search.
Police make breakthrough in search for Joshlin Smith
Western Cape police have expanded their search operations for Joshlin Smith, employing drones and search and rescue dogs in a comprehensive effort to find the missing child.
The operation led to the discovery of clothing pieces stained with blood in an open field late at night, a potentially crucial lead in the case.
Western Cape police spokesperson Lieutenant Colonel Malcolm Pojie stated:
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“Clothing pieces, allegedly stained with blood, were discovered in an open field during random searches conducted on an open field late last night.”
These items were promptly seized and are set to undergo forensic analysis to determine any connection to Joshlin’s disappearance Despite the breakthrough, the search is far from over, Pojie confirmed.
Are Kelly Smith and Jacquin Appollis suspects?
The presence of Kelly Smith, Joshlin’s mother, and her boyfriend, Jacquin Boeta Appollis, at the search site raised eyebrows but did not indicate they were in the police’s scope as suspects or, at the very least, persons of interest in the case.
Moreover, observers at the scene indicated that Kelly was visibly emotional in the area where the bloody clothes were discovered.
Mayor Andre Trotter, in a statement, lauded the communal and official efforts in the search for Joshlin, emphasising the emotional toll the disappearance has taken on the Saldanha Bay community.
“The past 13 days have been an emotional roller coaster for all of us and I want to express my sincere thanks to each and every individual and organization for your unwavering support and prayers. To all those who are providing assistance and donations – thank you, we truly appreciate your assistance,” he said.
Joshlin Smith went missing on Monday, 19 February 2024. According to various accounts from the police, as well as Kelly and Jacquin, the six-year-old was left in the care of the mother’s boyfriend.
Jacquin insists he allowed Joshlin to play with friends, albeit the Grade 1 pupil was kept at home that day due to an undisclosed illness.
Despite several allegations and rumours linking Kelly and Jacquin to the child’s disappearance, police have categorically stated that the couple is, at this time, not considered suspects in the matter.
“The search continues. No arrests have been made,” Pojie said in a statement.
