US EditionMother who sold six-year-old daughter given life term in South Africa
- On 29 May 2025, in the Western Cape High Court located in Saldanha Bay, Judge Nathan Erasmus handed down life sentences to three individuals convicted of kidnapping and trafficking a six-year-old girl, Joshlin Smith, including her mother and two accomplices.
- The case followed Joshlin's disappearance from Saldanha Bay in February 2024, which triggered a nationwide search and intense community impact, contributing to the court's decision for severe sentences.
- Prosecutors alleged Smith planned to sell Joshlin to a traditional healer for 20,000 rand due to the child's eyes and fair complexion, and the accused showed no remorse or compelling reasons for a lesser sentence.
- Judge Erasmus stated that there were no mitigating factors to justify a reduced sentence and imposed the maximum penalty, also directing that the accused be registered on the national Child Protection Register.
- The life sentences reflect the court's commitment to child protection amid rising kidnappings in South Africa, with the community recognized for its role in the case and ongoing efforts to find Joshlin.
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South Africa. Women Sentenced to Eternal Imprisonment for Selling a Six-Year-Old Girl
The girl's mother is described as a manipulator and someone who told "delayed lies." A neighbor says that Racquel sold her daughter to a traditional nurse. Authorities guarantee that the search continues.
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Total News Sources161
Leaning Left25Leaning Right29Center26Last UpdatedBias Distribution36% Right
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36% Right
L 31%
C 33%
R 36%
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