It’s a chilling thought – how easily a child can vanish without a trace. The case of Joslin Smith has once again brought this harsh reality to the forefront.
While her mother, boyfriend, and two others face charges of kidnapping and human trafficking, the search for the 6-year-old has been a frustrating and fruitless one.
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Unfortunately, Joslin’s case is not an isolated incident. In South Africa, hundreds of children go missing each year, leaving families and communities devastated. Luke Lamprecht, Head of Advocacy at Women and Men Against Child Abuse, sheds light on the prevalence of these crimes against children.
One of the major challenges in such cases is the reluctance of people to come forward with information. Fear often paralyses individuals, resulting in a lack of action.
Lamprecht explains that without someone making a complaint, the system cannot be activated to its full potential. The Child and Family Unit (CFU) relies on statements and CAS numbers to proceed with investigations.
However, even with these systems in place, the process of finding missing children can be hindered. False allegations are carefully scrutinised to prevent wrongful arrests and malicious prosecutions. Yet, sometimes the very system designed to protect can unintentionally impede progress.
Action Society highlights the war being waged on children in South Africa, emphasising that Joslin’s case is a stark reminder of how easily a child can disappear without a trace. Human trafficking victims are often caught off guard, drugged, and silenced to facilitate their transportation.
They are moved swiftly between multiple individuals, making it difficult to track their whereabouts.
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The search for Joslin continues, with community members, search and rescue teams, and law enforcement tirelessly following every lead. Hope remains that this green-eyed girl will be found and reunited with her loved ones.
As a society, we must confront the harsh reality of child disappearances and take action. It is crucial to support organisations like Women and Men Against Child Abuse and Action Society, who work tirelessly to protect our children.
Together, we can create a safer world for every child, where their innocence is cherished and their safety is paramount.
This article was submitted by Trevor Moosa of Safe Kids Worldwide
