Khumbudzo Ntshavheni, Minister in the Presidency responsible for State Security, has issued a call to communities to assist the police in locating missing six-year-old Joshlin Smith and other children who have vanished without a trace.
Addressing the nation, Ntshavheni emphasized the urgency of the situation, highlighting Cabinet’s appreciation for the arrests made in connection with Joshlin Smith’s disappearance in Saldanha Bay, Western Cape.
“Cabinet applauded the police and the community of Saldanha Bay in the Western Cape for the arrest of suspects in connection with the missing of six-year-old Joshlin Smith,” stated Ntshavheni. “Cabinet joins the nation in prayer and efforts for the safe return of many other children who have gone missing in the recent past. Cabinet calls on persons with information on all missing children to contact their nearest police station.”
Joshlin, a Grade 1 learner, vanished on February 19 from Diazville in Saldanha Bay, sparking widespread concern and efforts to locate her.
Ntshavheni reiterated the imperative of combating gender-based violence and urged collaboration between communities and law enforcement agencies to address the issue.
“Cabinet expressed concern about the safety of children following the recent cases of child kidnappings in different parts of the country,” said Ntshavheni. “Parents and caregivers must give extra vigilant care regarding the safety and whereabouts of children in their care and should educate children about general safety precautions. Communities are urged to assist in taking care of children.”
Reflecting on Joshlin’s case, Ntshavheni stressed the paramount importance of protecting all children, emphasizing the shared responsibility of parents, caregivers, and communities.
Meanwhile, developments in the legal proceedings related to Joshlin’s disappearance saw charges withdrawn against one suspect, while others abandoned bail. The trio faces charges of trafficking in persons and kidnapping, with the court case postponed until May 13.