South Africa: Mother Sentenced to Life for Selling Daughter to Healer
Daughter sold to healer: Mother convicted to lifetime imprisonment - Daughter gets sold to healer by mother, resulting in lifelong imprisonment for the mother
In a chilling turn of events in South Africa, a woman was sentenced to life imprisonment for selling her own daughter to a traditional healer. This shocking incident occurred in February 2024, and the mother, identified as 35-year-old Racquel Smith, was found guilty of human trafficking and abduction by a court last Thursday. Her partner and a mutual friend were also implicated in the hearing.
The girl, named Joshlin, disappeared, causing national outrage in South Africa. The sports minister, Gayton McKenzie, offered a generous reward of around 48,000 euros for her safe return. The mother, however, showed no remorse during the trial, demonstrating a complete disregard for her daughter's wellbeing.
Investigations revealed that Joshlin might have been sold to a traditional healer, who was reportedly captivated by the girl's unique green eyes and fair skin. Witnesses testified during the two-month trial about the mother's admitted involvement in the sale of her daughter. As the verdict was announced on Thursday, the courtroom erupted in applause.
- South Africa
- Mother
- Trafficking
- Healer
A Persistent Problem in South Africa
Sadly, this case is part of a larger, unsettling trend in South Africa. Human trafficking and child-related crimes remain significant concerns in the country, with South Africa identified as a central hub for these vile practices[1]. The country acts as both a source and a transit point for victims, often luring them through false job opportunities, targeting those from disadvantaged backgrounds[1][3].
While South Africa has made efforts to combat these crimes, moving up to Tier 2 in the trafficking rankings[1], challenges persist. The number of reported kidnappings has seen a dramatic increase over the past decade, almost quadrupling, often linked to organized crime and economic hardship[3][4].
Regarding child trafficking, instances involving mothers such as this one are not common but do occur. Such cases serve as grim reminders of the severity and complexity of child exploitation in South Africa[3][5].
The conviction rate for child abuse cases remains low, with only 4% of cases handled by the Teddy Bear Foundation leading to convictions[5]. Despite strong laws protecting children, violence and trafficking continue to affect minors, prompting calls for enhanced protection systems[5].
- The case of Racquel Smith, a South African mother sentenced to life imprisonment for selling her daughter to a healer, is part of a persistently alarming trend of human trafficking and child-related crimes in South Africa.
- South Africa, despite making efforts to combat human trafficking, remains a significant hub for these vile practices due to its appeal as both a source and transit point for victims. Instances involving mothers like Smith serve as grim reminders of the severity and complexity of child exploitation in the country.
