Sold by Her Own Mother: The Chilling Case of Missing 6-Year-Old Joshlin Smith

A South African woman, Kelly Smith, has been sentenced to life in prison after being convicted of abducting and selling her 6-year-old daughter, Joshlin Smith, for about $1,100. Two accomplices also received life sentences. The child has been missing for over a year, and the case has deeply shocked the nation.

The Joshlin Smith Case: A Nation in Shock

In February 2024, 6-year-old Joshlin Smith disappeared from her home in Saldanha Bay, Western Cape. Initially reported as a missing child case, the investigation took a dark turn when it was discovered that her mother, Kelly Smith, had orchestrated the abduction and sold her own daughter for 1,100 USD (approx. 20,000 ZAR) to individuals allegedly involved in ritualistic practices.

What Happened?

• Kelly Smith, along with her boyfriend and another accomplice, were arrested and charged with human trafficking, kidnapping, and conspiracy to commit murder.

• Despite extensive search operations and community efforts, Joshlin remains missing.

• The court described the act as one of “unthinkable betrayal” and handed down life sentences to all three accused.

• Why It Shocked South Africa:

  • The idea of a mother selling her child shattered public trust and sparked nationwide outrage.

  • Social media was flooded with hashtags like #JusticeForJoshlin and #BringJoshlinHome.

  • The case also reignited discussions around child trafficking, poverty, and occult crimes in the country.