A South African mother and two accomplices were convicted for their involvement in the trafficking of her 6-year-old daughter. Authorities stated that the child was likely sold to a traditional healer who sought her for her eye and skin color.
Kelly Smith, the mother of 6-year-old Joshlin Smith, was found guilty of trafficking her daughter on charges that stemmed from her disappearance in February 2024. Smith’s boyfriend, Jacquen Appollis, and their friend, Steveno van Rhyn, were also convicted on kidnapping and trafficking charges related to the case.
During the trial, a neighbor testified that Smith had confided in her before Joshlin’s disappearance. Smith allegedly told the neighbor that she planned to sell her daughter to a healer who desired her “eyes and skin.” This revelation came as a chilling prelude to the tragic events.
Smith, Appollis, and van Rhyn denied any involvement in Joshlin’s disappearance. However, more details surfaced through testimonies. Lourentia Lombaard, the neighbor, claimed that Smith later admitted to selling Joshlin to a “sangoma,” or traditional healer. Lombaard added that Smith had offered money to keep this secret, trying to silence those who knew.
In addition, Joshlin’s teacher testified that she had asked Smith about the missing child’s whereabouts. Smith allegedly responded by claiming Joshlin was on a ship, being transported to West Africa in a container. This story raised further suspicions, especially since no evidence linked the child to a ship or international transportation.
As the investigation unfolded, authorities arrested a woman believed to be the healer involved. However, she was later released due to insufficient evidence. Despite the lack of direct proof against the healer, Smith’s actions were enough to secure the conviction of all three individuals.
When the verdict was announced, Smith broke down in tears, while courtroom observers expressed their support for the decision. Smith, Appollis, and van Rhyn face the possibility of life in prison for their roles in the child trafficking operation.
for more updates on this story, visit DC Brief.
