The four defendants in the courtroom. (Luke Daniel/News24)
Four people appeared in Vredenburg Magistrates Court on Thursday in connection with the disappearance of six-year-old Joshlyn Smith.
The girl went missing on February 19 while playing outside her home in the Midelpos informal settlement in Diazville, Saldanha Bay.
her mother, Kelly Smith; Smith's boyfriend, Jacken Apolis; Steveno van Ryn. Then Pumza Shigako appeared on the dock.
They are charged with human trafficking for the purpose of exploitation and kidnapping.
Kelly Smith of Vredenburg Magistrates Court. (Luke Daniel/News24)
As the hearing began, police asked members of the public to vacate the courtroom to allow space for the defendant's family and senior Western Cape police officers.
At Judge Theresa Postma's request, a staff member read the court's rules, but members of the media expressed concern that “TikTok influencers” and Patriotic Alliance representatives were allowed to remain in the courtroom. did.
The so-called influencers were asked to leave the courtroom, but political parties indicated they had permission to film the proceedings.
With the situation resolved, the defendant informed the court that he intended to apply for legal aid representation.
The case was adjourned to Wednesday, March 13th.
