A South African court has found Racquel “Kelly” Smith guilty of human trafficking and kidnapping after concluding that she sold her six-year-old daughter, Joshlin Smith, for 20,000 rand (approximately $1,085) in February 2024.
Judge Nathan Erasmus delivered the ruling on Friday after a harrowing two-month trial that gripped the nation. The proceedings were held in a community hall in Saldanha Bay, a small fishing town about 135 kilometres north of Cape Town, where Joshlin went missing earlier this year.
According to Judge Erasmus, the testimony of 35 state witnesses led to the conviction of Smith, 35, along with her boyfriend and a mutual friend, who were also found guilty.
“I have already found that on the evidence before me, Joshlin was exchanged. The evidence is from all scores there were payments, or at least the promise of payments,” the judge stated.
He further condemned Smith for viewing her daughter as a “commodity,” citing testimony that she appeared disturbingly calm during the community-wide search for her missing child.
Crowds outside the courtroom erupted in applause as the verdict was read. Many had participated in the frantic search for Joshlin in the days following her disappearance, holding signs and chanting, “We want Joshlin back.”
The case took a disturbing turn when prosecutors alleged that Smith had sold her daughter to a traditional healer interested in the girl’s striking green eyes and fair complexion. Smith, who has two other children, initially garnered sympathy after her daughter was reported missing. Joshlin’s image, featuring her bright smile, brown pigtails, and captivating eyes, was widely shared in the media.
Among the most chilling evidence were statements from the girl’s teacher and a local pastor, who testified that Smith had spoken of her intention to sell the child as early as 2023.
None of the three accused took the stand during the trial. Sentencing has been adjourned, but legal experts suggest the convicted may face life imprisonment. Joshlin Smith remains missing.
