Life Sentences in Joshlyn Smith Kidnapping Case

Cape Town, South Africa – May 29, 2025 – A Cape Town court delivered life sentences to three individuals convicted of human trafficking and kidnapping six-year-old Joshlyn Smith. Judge Erasmus, presiding over the case, stated, "Drugs not an excuse for the offence." The judge sentenced the three defendants – Mr. Apollonius, Mr. Van Ryn, and Ms. Smith – to life imprisonment for human trafficking and 10 years for kidnapping, to be served concurrently. The case has drawn significant public attention due to the severity of the crimes and the ongoing uncertainty regarding Joshlyn's whereabouts. Many online comments express outrage and demand answers about the child's safety and well-being. The sentencing marks a significant step in the legal process, though the search for Joshlyn continues, leaving a lingering sense of unease and hope among the public.