A South African court found Racquel “Kelly” Smith guilty on Friday of trafficking her six-year-old daughter, Joshlin, who has been missing for over a year, in a case that has sparked national outrage. The two-month trial featured testimony from various witnesses indicating that Smith had confessed to selling her daughter in February 2024, reportedly receiving 20,000 rand ($1,085) for the transaction.
Judge Nathan Erasmus stated that the testimony of 35 state witnesses led him to conclude that Smith, along with her two co-defendants—a boyfriend and a mutual friend—were guilty of human trafficking and kidnapping. “Based on the evidence before me, Joshlin was exchanged,” he remarked, emphasizing that there were payments or at least promises of payments involved. He accused Smith of viewing her daughter, who was six at the time of her disappearance, as a “commodity.”
The trial took place in a community hall in the small fishing town of Saldanha Bay, approximately 135 kilometers (80 miles) north of Cape Town, inciting significant public anger. Crowds gathered outside the courthouse, chanting “We want Joshlin back,” and the verdict was met with applause from the onlookers. Many local residents had joined law enforcement in extensive search efforts for the missing girl within their impoverished community.
“You are guilty of trafficking in persons concerning Joshlin Smith. On the second count, you are also convicted of kidnapping,” Erasmus declared to the three defendants, none of whom testified during the trial. The court has been adjourned for sentencing, which could include life imprisonment.
Initially, Smith garnered sympathy after her daughter’s disappearance, with media outlets showcasing photographs of Joshlin’s striking green eyes, broad smile, and brown pigtails. The case gained national attention, including a one-million-rand ($54,000) reward for her safe return offered by Sports Minister Gayton McKenzie.
However, the situation took a dark turn when prosecutors alleged that Smith had sold Joshlin to a traditional healer, attracted by the child’s eyes and fair complexion. Testimony revealed that Smith, who has two other children, appeared unusually calm and unconcerned during the extensive search for Joshlin. Disturbing details that emerged in court included accounts from the girl’s teacher and a pastor, who reported that the mother had discussed the planned sale of her child as early as 2023.
