South African mother sentenced to life in prison for selling daughter

Published: Thursday, May 29, 2025 at 3:13 pm

South African Mother Sentenced to Life for Trafficking Daughter

In a shocking case that has gripped South Africa, a mother, Racquel "Kelly" Smith, has been sentenced to life in prison for selling her six-year-old daughter, Joshlin. The sentencing, handed down on Thursday, also included a 10-year sentence for kidnapping. Smith's boyfriend, Jacquen Appollis, and their friend, Steveno van Rhyn, received identical sentences.

The tragic events unfolded in Middelpos, Western Cape, where Joshlin vanished on February 19, 2024. Despite extensive searches, the young girl remains missing. Court testimony revealed that Smith sold Joshlin for approximately $1,100 to a traditional healer, a Sangoma, who reportedly sought the child due to her physical characteristics.

Judge Nathan Erasmus, in delivering the sentence, stated that he found no redeeming qualities to warrant a lesser punishment. The case has deeply impacted the Middelpos community, leaving it "fractured," according to the judge. Witnesses, including a neighbor and friend of Smith's, testified that Smith admitted to selling Joshlin. A local pastor also recounted hearing Smith discuss selling her children in the past. The defendants showed no emotion during the sentencing, which took place in the Saldanha community center. The Western Cape police commissioner, Thembisile Patekile, has vowed to continue the search for Joshlin.

BNN's Perspective: This case is a horrific reminder of the depths of human depravity. The callous disregard for a child's life and well-being is truly appalling. While the sentences handed down are severe, they reflect the gravity of the crime. The ongoing search for Joshlin is crucial, and we hope for a resolution that brings closure to this heartbreaking situation.

Keywords: South Africa, child trafficking, kidnapping, Racquel Smith, Kelly Smith, Joshlin, Middelpos, Western Cape, missing child, sentencing, life in prison, Sangoma, traditional healer, crime, court case, child abuse, human trafficking, South African news, news.

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