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Sonke welcomes the recent court verdict in the Joshlin Smith trial, which found the defendants guilty of human trafficking and kidnapping. The judge’s ruling placed life sentences for human trafficking and ten years in jail for kidnapping. This guilty verdict comes after a series of court proceedings to verify the allegations of the horrific human rights violations against an innocent child.
“Whilst we welcome the speedy resolution of this trial and the thoroughness with which the system managed the case, we are concerned that Joshlin’s whereabouts remain unknown. We are encouraged by the commitment of the police to continue the search. We commend members of the community who acted swiftly on this matter by providing valuable information to the police, which led to the quick arrest of the suspects. This serves as a valuable lesson for all of us to avail ourselves and ensure that we are each other’s keepers,” said Bafana Khumalo, Sonke’s Co-executive Director.
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