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.
Reports reveal that the defendants engaged in the abduction and trafficking of Joshlin Smith, an intolerable act against humanity. International human rights instruments prohibit all forms of abuse, including abduction and trafficking of persons. Article 35 of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC) speaks on the outrageous nature of child trafficking. These life sentences and ten years in prison are legitimate punishments that hold offenders answerable for their crimes. It is an act of justice that sends a clear message that such deeds are unacceptable. We look forward to more victims of human rights abuse being served this form of justice.
“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. Sonke calls on the criminal justice system to remain committed to reinforcing the processes where survivors and victims can find justice and perpetrators are held accountable for their actions.
ENDS/
Issued by Sonke Gender Justice.
For media enquiries contact:
Eucharia Nkengafack , Regional Communications and Social Media Coordinator, Sonke Gender Justice on eucharia@genderjustice.org.za or +237 672385467
Bafana Khumalo, Co-Executive Director, Sonke Gender Justice and Co-Chairperson, Global MenEngage Alliance: bafana@genderjustice.org.za or 082 5784479.
NOTE TO EDITORS
Sonke is a South African-based non-profit organisation working throughout Africa. We believe women and men, girls and boys can work together to resist patriarchy, advocate for gender justice, and achieve gender transformation. For media releases, reports and news visit https://genderjustice.org.za/ and https://genderjustice.org.za/newsletter-signup/
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