Joshlin Smith case: WMACA urges more arrests
Women and Men Against Child Abuse (WMACA) has welcomed the life sentences handed down to Kelly Smith and her co-accused in the harrowing case of six-year-old Joshlin Smith's disappearance.
The case has become a chilling symbol of the ongoing crisis of child trafficking in South Africa.
Joshlin Smith vanished and was reportedly sold for R20 000. The court found that Smith, along with two co-accused, conspired in the sale of the child.
ALSO READ: You have a legal obligation to report child abuse – State Advocate
While WMACA expresses satisfaction with the outcome of the trial, they firmly believe that more individuals were involved who have yet to face justice.
'There was a middleman, and there was a client. Someone wanted something from this child, and we still don't know who they are,' WMACA said. 'There are people who were nearby, who saw or heard things. Too many loose ends remain.'
WMACA is calling on those convicted to come forward with the full truth now. With nothing left to lose, they urge the guilty to reveal the identities of any additional accomplices.
One of the most disturbing aspects of the case, according to WMACA, is the involvement of Joshlin's mother.
'How does a mother even begin a conversation about selling her child? And how does that conversation lead to a buyer, whether for the entire child or body parts? It's diabolical.'
ALSO READ: Bertha Gxowa creates awareness on child abuse
Despite the absence of Joshlin's body, WMACA holds the convicted trio fully responsible for her disappearance, whether she is ultimately found alive or dead.
'Nothing less than a life sentence would have been acceptable,' the organisation stated.
WMACA acknowledges and praises Judge Erasmus for delivering a sentence that sends a strong message.
The organisation mourns that it took such a tragic and horrific case to bring attention to the horrors of child trafficking.
'Justice was served in court, but for Joshlin and countless other children who disappear without a trace, we may never know the full truth. We only wish that a little girl had not met such a gruesome fate for the world to take notice.'
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