In a case that has shocked South Africa, Racquel "Kelly" Smith was sentenced to life imprisonment for kidnapping and selling her six-year-old daughter, Joshlin Smith. The girl disappeared in February 2024 from their home in Saldanha Bay, a fishing town located approximately 135 kilometers north of Cape Town, and remains missing.
During the court proceedings on Thursday, Judge Nathan Erasmus convicted Smith, aged 35, along with her boyfriend and a mutual friend, for human trafficking and kidnapping. All three were sentenced to life imprisonment, with an additional concurrent 10-year term specifically for kidnapping. Furthermore, their names were ordered to be entered into the child protection register.
Initially, Smith garnered public sympathy when her daughter went missing, triggering extensive nationwide search efforts. Images of Joshlin, noted for her distinctive green eyes and cheerful smile, were widely circulated online. The case attracted high-level attention, including a ministerial offer of a one-million rand reward (approximately $54,000) for the child's safe return.
However, the case took a disturbing turn when prosecutors revealed that Smith had sold Joshlin for 20,000 rand (around $1,100) to a traditional healer, reportedly interested in the child’s eyes and complexion. The enduring mystery of Joshlin's whereabouts continues to be a source of national concern.
South Africa is grappling with rising crime rates, particularly involving child abductions. This case has highlighted the critical need for enhanced measures to protect vulnerable children from trafficking and exploitation.
