Sister of Accused Takes Stand in High-Profile Kidnapping and Trafficking Case
Image source: AP News
Mickeyla Daniels, a dedicated police officer from Upington in the Northern Cape, testified on Monday in the Western Cape High Court in Saldanha Bay. Daniels, who is the sister of Kelly Smith, provided crucial testimony in the ongoing trial against Kelly Smith, her boyfriend Jacquen Appollis, and Steveno van Rhyn. The three are facing charges of kidnapping and human trafficking related to the disappearance of Joshlin Smith, Kelly’s daughter.
Daniels recounted an emotional and distressing incident that occurred just a week after Joshlin’s disappearance. She described how Kelly contacted her in a state of desperation, revealing that Joshlin was still in the Middlepos informal settlement—an area struggling with instability and socio-economic challenges. Daniels vividly depicted Kelly’s emotional state during their initial conversation, highlighting her tears and evident anguish. However, there was a stark change in Kelly’s mood the following day; she appeared elated and even excitedly discussed new clothes bought for her other two children by Gayton Mackenzie, a prominent local figure.
Concerned for her niece’s safety, Daniels initiated a follow-up conversation with Kelly via WhatsApp, pressing her for more information about Joshlin’s whereabouts. During this exchange, Kelly revealed a troubling development—Joshlin was indeed in the informal settlement, and there were plans to sell her. Kelly’s statement that the situation was “too heated” deeply unsettled Daniels, amplifying the urgency and fear surrounding the incident.
In addition to Daniels’ testimony, the court heard from Lorentia Lombaard, a former accused who is now testifying as a state witness. Lombaard expressed deep remorse for her involvement in the case and sought to clarify discrepancies between her initial confession and her current statements. She explained that her earlier confession, made on March 15 of the previous year, was heavily influenced by feelings of fear, stress, and anxiety, as it was her first time addressing an audience.
Lombaard also shared her attempts to intervene in the events surrounding Joshlin. With a trembling voice, she said, “I did try to stop her, but she wouldn’t listen to me. I feel sad and regretful for being involved because I’m also a mother of four children.” Her testimony illuminated her internal conflict and profound regret, underscoring the emotional toll this case has taken on her. She is expected to undergo cross-examination in the coming days, where her credibility and the extent of her involvement will be further examined.
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