South African Mother Convicted of Trafficking and Kidnapping in Daughter’s "Sale" Case

In a case that has gripped South Africa and sparked national outrage, Racquel "Kelly" Smith was found guilty of human trafficking and kidnapping by a South African court on Friday, May 2, 2025. The conviction stems from the "sale" of her six-year-old daughter, Joshlin, in a deeply disturbing case that has highlighted the vulnerability of children and the dark underbelly of human exploitation.

The trial, which spanned two months, heard from numerous witnesses who testified that Racquel Smith allegedly confessed to "selling" Joshlin in February 2024, claiming to have received 20,000 rands (approximately $1,085) in exchange. The details revealed during the proceedings painted a grim picture of a mother willing to commodify her own child for financial gain.

Judge Nathan Erasmus presided over the case and stated that the testimonies of 35 prosecution witnesses led him to declare Racquel Smith, 35, and her two co-accused – a boyfriend and a mutual friend – guilty of the charges. He emphasized the evidence of payments or promises of payments, firmly establishing Racquel Smith’s intent to treat her daughter, who was six years old at the time of her disappearance, as a "commodity."

The trial was held in a community hall in Saldanha Bay, a small fishing town about 135 km north of Cape Town, where the case ignited a firestorm of emotions. Crowds gathered outside the courtroom, chanting, "We want Joshlin back," reflecting the community’s deep concern and determination to find the missing girl. The verdict was met with a wave of applause from those assembled, signifying a collective sense of justice served, albeit tempered by the continued uncertainty surrounding Joshlin’s whereabouts.

The initial days following Joshlin’s disappearance saw the community rallying together, with many residents joining police in searching for the child in their impoverished neighborhood. The search efforts were extensive and emotionally charged, reflecting the deep sense of community and the fear that such a tragedy could strike so close to home.

However, the narrative shifted dramatically as the investigation progressed. What began as a missing person case soon took a dark turn when prosecutors alleged that Racquel Smith had sold her daughter to a traditional healer. The alleged motive was linked to the child’s distinctive physical features, specifically her light eyes and complexion, which the healer purportedly desired for ritualistic purposes. The allegations added a layer of superstition and horror to the case, further fueling public anger and condemnation.

The court heard shocking revelations, including testimony from Joshlin’s teacher and a pastor, both of whom claimed that Racquel Smith had discussed plans to "sell" her child as early as 2023. These pre-meditated discussions highlighted the calculated nature of the crime and the alarming lack of concern for Joshlin’s well-being.

Furthermore, witnesses reported that Racquel Smith appeared unusually calm and indifferent during the intense search efforts for Joshlin. This detachment raised suspicion and contrasted sharply with the expected behavior of a distraught mother whose child had gone missing. Her demeanor, along with the other evidence presented, contributed to the growing perception that she was involved in Joshlin’s disappearance.

The case garnered national attention, drawing the concern of prominent figures, including the Minister of Sports, Gayton McKenzie, who offered a reward of one million rands ($54,000) for the "safe and sound" return of the child. The substantial reward reflected the government’s commitment to finding Joshlin and bringing those responsible for her disappearance to justice.

Despite the conviction, Joshlin’s whereabouts remain unknown, adding to the ongoing anguish and uncertainty surrounding the case. The focus has now shifted to locating the missing girl and ensuring her safety. The authorities are continuing their investigation, pursuing all leads in an effort to bring closure to this tragic chapter.

Judge Erasmus adjourned the hearing for sentencing, acknowledging the severity of the crimes committed. Racquel Smith and her co-accused could face life imprisonment, reflecting the gravity of the charges and the profound impact of their actions on Joshlin’s life and the wider community.

The case of Joshlin has exposed the vulnerability of children to exploitation and the need for heightened vigilance in protecting them from trafficking and abuse. It has also highlighted the important role of community involvement in addressing such issues and the need for effective law enforcement to investigate and prosecute those responsible for these heinous crimes.

While the conviction offers a measure of justice, the focus remains on finding Joshlin and ensuring her well-being. The community and the nation at large continue to hope for her safe return, holding onto the possibility that she will one day be reunited with her loved ones. The enduring image of Joshlin, with her bright green eyes, wide smile, and brown pigtails, continues to inspire hope and a determination to bring her home.