South African mother Racquel “Kelly” Smith has been sentenced to life in prison for trafficking and kidnapping her six-year-old daughter, Joshlin Smith, who vanished in February 2024. Smith’s boyfriend Jacquen Appollis and their friend Steveno Van Rhyn received the same sentence. Joshlin’s fate remains unknown.

Witnesses claimed Smith sold her daughter to a traditional healer “for her eyes and skin.” A neighbor testified Smith said, “I did something silly. I sold my child.” Others alleged she once considered selling her kids for as little as $275.

On the day Joshlin disappeared, she stayed home from school. Smith, allegedly using drugs, left her in Appollis’ care. Her disappearance wasn’t reported until 9 PM.

Initially, the community rallied behind Smith, but public support collapsed after the arrests. Joshlin’s teacher remembered her as quiet and kind. Her favorite gospel song, God Will Work It Out, is still played daily in class.

Police continue the search. “We will not rest,” said the Western Cape police commissioner. Meanwhile, Joshlin’s family clings to hope: “You are our flower, our baby, our green-eyed child.”