In a case that has gripped South Africa, Racquel “Kelly” Smith, the mother of missing six-year-old Joshlin Smith, has been sentenced to life in prison for kidnapping and human trafficking.
Her boyfriend, Jacquen Appollis, and friend, Steveno van Rhyn, also received life sentences. Joshlin vanished in February last year and has not been found.
Life Sentences Handed Down
On Thursday, May 29, 2025, Judge Nathan Erasmus delivered the verdict in the Western Cape High Court, sentencing Kelly Smith, Jacquen Appollis, and Steveno van Rhyn to life imprisonment for human trafficking.
They also received concurrent 10-year sentences for kidnapping. The judge emphasized the severity of their actions, stating there was nothing redeeming to warrant a lesser sentence.
The Disappearance of Joshlin Smith
Joshlin Smith, then six years old, disappeared from her home in Saldanha Bay, a fishing town north of Cape Town, in February 2024. Her striking green eyes and broad smile became a national symbol as a massive search operation ensued.
Initially, her mother, Kelly Smith, garnered public sympathy, but the investigation soon shifted focus to her involvement.
A Mother’s Betrayal
Prosecutors revealed that Kelly Smith sold her daughter, reportedly for 20,000 rand (approximately $1,100), to a traditional healer who was interested in Joshlin’s light eyes and fair complexion.
Evidence presented in court indicated that Smith viewed her daughter as a commodity and was even willing to accept a lower sum of 5,000 rand. Witnesses testified that Smith had previously spoken of her children being “removed” and that a search would yield “nothing.”
Key Takeaways
- Kelly Smith, Joshlin’s mother, and two co-accused, Jacquen Appollis and Steveno van Rhyn, were sentenced to life in prison for human trafficking and 10 years for kidnapping.
- Joshlin Smith, six years old at the time, disappeared in February 2024 and remains missing.
- The court found that Smith sold her daughter to a traditional healer for a reported sum of 20,000 rand.
- The case has drawn national attention and highlighted the increasing issue of child kidnappings in South Africa.
- Despite the sentencing, Joshlin’s whereabouts remain unknown, leaving her family and the community in limbo.
Community Impact and Ongoing Search
The case has deeply affected the Saldanha Bay community and the nation. Joshlin’s grandmother, Amanda Smith-Daniels, expressed her anguish, stating that no sentence would bring her grandchild back.
The police have affirmed that the missing person investigation remains open, and efforts to find Joshlin will continue. The government and various organizations have welcomed the hefty sentences, emphasizing the importance of protecting children and combating human trafficking.
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