In a case that has gripped South Africa, Racquel “Kelly” Smith, 35, has been sentenced to life imprisonment for the kidnapping and trafficking of her six-year-old daughter, Joshlin Smith, who remains missing since February 2024. Smith’s boyfriend, Jacquen Appollis, and their friend, Steveno van Rhyn, were also convicted and received identical sentences.
The Western Cape High Court in Saldanha Bay delivered the verdict after an eight-week trial that revealed harrowing details of Joshlin’s disappearance. Witnesses testified that Smith sold her daughter to a traditional healer, or “sangoma,” for 20,000 rand (approximately $1,100), allegedly for the child’s eyes and skin. Judge Nathan Erasmus condemned the trio’s actions, stating they showed no remorse and emphasizing the severe impact on the community.
Despite extensive search efforts, Joshlin’s whereabouts remain unknown. The case has highlighted the alarming issue of child trafficking in South Africa, with over 17,000 kidnapping cases reported in the 2023/2024 financial year . Authorities continue to investigate, and a reward of 1 million rand has been offered for information leading to Joshlin’s recovery.
The sentencing has brought some closure to the community, but the search for Joshlin continues, keeping hope alive that she may still be found.
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