South African Mother Sentenced to Life for Selling Her 6-Year-Old Daughter

Tone & Political Bias: Center

Why: The reporting is fact-based, focuses on a legal ruling, and avoids framing, ideology, or political commentary.

Life Sentences for All Three Accused

A South African court has sentenced Racquel "Kelly" Smith, a 35-year-old mother from Saldanha Bay, to life in prison for kidnapping and selling her six-year-old daughter, Joshlin Smith. Two of her associates—her boyfriend and a mutual friend—were also given life sentences for their role in the case, which has drawn national outrage.

Judge Nathan Erasmus ruled that all three accused be registered as offenders on the child protection register and additionally serve 10 years concurrently for the kidnapping charge.

“There is nothing that I can find that is redeeming,” the judge said during sentencing on Thursday.

Child Never Found

Joshlin Smith went missing in February 2023. She was last seen in her home in Saldanha Bay, about 85 miles north of Cape Town. Despite widespread searches and media coverage, her body has never been found.

Her mother was originally viewed as a victim in the case and had appeared in media appealing for help. The public perception shifted sharply when evidence began to surface during the investigation.

Price for the Child: $1,100

The court heard that Kelly Smith sold her daughter for 20,000 South African rand, which is approximately $1,100. Prosecutors alleged the buyer was a traditional healer who was reportedly interested in Joshlin’s eyes and light skin. However, Judge Erasmus did not confirm the buyer’s identity or intent in his ruling.

Testimonies from Community Members

The trial began in March 2025 and included testimony from Joshlin's teacher and a local pastor. Both stated that Smith had spoken openly about the possibility of selling her daughter, even as early as 2023.

Public Reaction

As the sentence was read out, cheers erupted from the courtroom gallery. Joshlin’s grandmother attended the proceedings wearing a shirt bearing photos of the missing girl. Smith, who is a mother of three, reportedly showed no emotion during the hour-long hearing. The judge noted her lack of remorse and described her as manipulative.

Drug Use Not a Defense

Judge Erasmus dismissed the defense's argument that drug use had impaired the judgment of the accused. All three individuals involved were reported to be drug users, but the judge said that did not excuse or justify their actions.

A Nation in Shock

The case captured national attention in South Africa, especially due to the child's age and the circumstances of her disappearance. Photos of Joshlin—showing her green eyes and brown pigtails—were widely circulated on social media during the search efforts. At one point, a South African government minister announced a 1-million rand ($54,000) reward for her safe return.

Search Efforts Continue

Despite the convictions, police say the search for Joshlin remains active. Authorities confirmed that they have extended the investigation beyond South African borders.

Rising Child Kidnappings in South Africa

South Africa faces an alarming rate of kidnappings. According to official police data, over 17,000 kidnapping cases were reported in the 2023/2024 financial year—an 11% rise from the previous year. The statistics do not break down the ages of the victims. This case has intensified public scrutiny on law enforcement's response to missing children and the broader child trafficking crisis in the country.