Mother Convicted of Trafficking 6-Year-Old Daughter in South Africa
Mother Convicted of Trafficking 6-Year-Old Daughter in South Africa
South African Kelly Smith, along with her boyfriend, Jacquen Apollis, and a friend, Steveno Van Rhyn, were found guilty of kidnapping and trafficking Kelly's daughter Joshlin.
Joshlin disappeared from their home in Middelpos, Saldanha Bay, on February 19, 2024, sparking a nationwide search that has yet to locate her.
The court heard testimony alleging that Smith sold Joshlin to a traditional healer (sangoma) for 20,000 rand ($1,100), supposedly for her "eyes and skin".
Judge Nathan Erasmus, in delivering the verdict, highlighted Smith's lack of concern as evidence of her guilt. While the buyer remains unidentified, the three convicts are currently in custody awaiting sentencing.
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