SAPSAC
29 May 2025
SAPSAC Welcomes Life Sentences in the Joshlin Smith Case – A Call to Prioritise the Safety and Dignity of South Africa’s Children
Press Statement
For Immediate Release
SAPSAC Welcomes Life Sentences in the Joshlin Smith Case – A Call to Prioritise the Safety and Dignity of South Africa’s Children
The South African Professional Society on the Abuse of Children (SAPSAC) commends the judiciary for delivering life sentences to the three accused in the heartbreaking case of Joshlin Smith. This verdict represents a crucial step in holding those who prey upon the most vulnerable among us accountable.
SAPSAC is proud to acknowledge the significant contribution of our member, Dr Marcel van der Watt, who provided expert court testimony during the sentencing proceedings. With 23 years of experience in law enforcement, criminal investigations, and research into Trafficking in Persons (TIP), Dr van der Watt played a pivotal role in assisting the court to understand the far-reaching impacts of this heinous crime.
Dr van der Watt’s testimony sheds light on the broader implications of Joshlin’s case and underscores the urgent need for action:
"The disappearance of 6-year-old Joshlin Smith stands as a sober reminder of the work that remains undone. Joshlin's case should serve as an inflection point in South Africa's fight against TIP, ultimately a fight for human dignity, human flourishing, and against the crippling societal indifference that allows traffickers and predators to operate with impunity. Joshlin’s story is by no means isolated; it symbolizes the thousands of other children who have vanished into the shadows, many of whose disappearances were never recorded, and the thousands more who will suffer the same fate unless decisive action is taken."
As an organisation dedicated to protecting South Africa’s children, SAPSAC reaffirms that the wellbeing and safety of children must be prioritised at every level of society. Joshlin’s story is a tragic reminder of what is at stake if we fail to act. We urge government agencies, law enforcement, civil society, and the public to collaborate in combating TIP and safeguarding the dignity and futures of our children.
The Teddy Bear Foundation fully supports and endorses this statement.
End of Statement