Mother Sentenced to Life for Selling Missing 6-Year-Old Daughter

South African Mother Sentenced to Life for Selling Missing Daughter A South African court delivered a life sentence to Kelly Smith for the sale of her six-year-old daughter, Joshlin Smith, who disappeared in February 2024. The case, which involved Smith's boyfriend and another man, concluded with Smith's conviction on kidnapping and human trafficking charges. The sentencing, held in a sports center in Saldanha Bay to accommodate the large public turnout, highlighted the community's profound concern for Joshlin's fate. Police investigations revealed the discovery of Joshlin's clothing near her home, adding a grim layer to the case. A neighbor, testifying at Smith's trial, stated that Smith admitted to selling Joshlin for approximately $1000 to a traditional healer. "I was shocked when I heard what Kelly had done," the neighbor said. "No one could have imagined she would do something like that to her own child." Despite the conviction, Joshlin remains missing, leaving the community in suspense. Authorities continue their search, hoping to bring Joshlin home and provide closure to her family and the community.