A South African court convicted Kelly Smith, her boyfriend Jacquen Apollis, and their friend Steveno Van Rhyn on charges of kidnapping and trafficking Smith’s 6-year-old daughter, Joshlin. The case, which shocked the nation, has remained under intense scrutiny since Joshlin went missing in February 2024 from her home in Middelpos, Western Cape.
Despite a nationwide search, Joshlin has not been found. The court heard that Smith had sold her daughter to a sangoma (traditional healer) for 20,000 rand ($1,100). One witness testified that Smith claimed the buyer wanted Joshlin for her “eyes and skin.”
Judge Nathan Erasmus condemned Smith’s actions, stating, “The conduct of Ms. Smith is not that of a concerned parent.” All three convicted will remain in custody until sentencing.
