The South African Racquel ‘Kelly’ Smith has been sentenced to life imprisonment for kidnapping and selling her six-year-old daughter. Two co-defendants, including Smith’s boyfriend, received the same sentence.
The third life sentence went to a friend of the couple. According to the judge, the trio showed little remorse. “I see no reason to impose a lesser sentence,” the judge said.
Six-year-old Joshlin Smith mysteriously disappeared from her home near Cape Town over a year ago. The girl has still not been found.
After the disappearance, there was a nationwide search and her photo was widely distributed. The South African Minister of Sport offered a reward of 1 million rand (almost 50,000 euros) for her safe return.
Initially, many people sympathized with the mother, until she was accused of involvement in the kidnapping. Smith allegedly sold her daughter for 20,000 rand.
According to the prosecution, a traditional healer wanted the girl because of her striking green eyes and light skin. The case against Smith caused a great stir in the country.
The police continue to search, both in South Africa and abroad. “We will not rest until we know what happened to Joshlin,” said Police Chief Thembisile Patekile.