The case of missing Joshlin Smith will be heard in her community, as per the ruling of Judge Gayaat Da Silva Salie, who cited the public's interest in justice and the community's desire for involvement. Due to an administrative error, only Joshlin's mother, Kelly Smith, appeared in court on Friday. However, the judge emphasized the importance of the community being present for the proceedings and plans are underway to find a suitable venue within the Saldanha Bay Municipality.
Judge Gayaat Da Silva Salie stated on Friday that the community's desire to be involved in the proceedings is in the interest of justice. This case is expected to be heard in Joshlin's community, as the public has a strong interest in the outcome. Kelly Smith, Joshlin's mother, was the only accused present in court due to an administrative error. Jacquen Appollis and Steveno van Rhyn, the other two accused, were still at Malmesbury Prison awaiting transfer to Pollsmoor Prison.
Judge Da Silva Salie confirmed the administrative error and revealed that counsels had a meeting in her chambers to discuss the situation. She emphasized that the community's presence would be beneficial to the case and that the proceedings would need to be held in an appropriate venue within the Saldanha Bay Municipality. This venue must be large enough to accommodate the anticipated public attendance and have adequate security measures. The judge also requested the State to thoroughly investigate suitable locations and facilitate a site inspection by the presiding judge during pre-trial proceedings.Judge Da Silva Salie expressed hope that Joshlin is still alive and inquired about the progress of the investigation. State Prosecutor Ms Swanepoel assured the court that the investigation is ongoing and that all leads are being pursued. The judge urged the defense counsels to encourage their clients to provide any additional information regarding Joshlin's whereabouts. All legal representatives agreed that a walk-through of the potential trial venue within the Saldanha Bay Municipality would be conducted before a trial date is set. Public members, including some who have participated in the searches for Joshlin, attended the proceedings at the Western Cape High Court on Friday. Councillor Veronique Pretorius, representing Saldanha Bay, welcomed the judge's decision to transfer the case back to the community, acknowledging the residents' strong desire to be involved
Joshlin Smith Missing Person Community Court Justice Investigation
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