Joshlin Smith’s mother and her accomplices get slapped with life sentences in the child trafficking case.
The court found the trio guilty of selling the missing girl to a traditional healer for R20,000 in February 2024.
Judge’s Scathing Remarks At Joshlin Smith’s Mother’s Sentencing
In his sentencing statement, Judge Erasmus expressed outrage at the defendants’ actions:
“The complete betrayal of parental trust and the calculated nature of this crime leaves no room for leniency. As the primary caregivers, you systematically planned and executed the sale of an innocent child.”
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Joshlin Smith’s mother and her accomplices gets life sentences-Image Source@sowetanliveThe judge particularly condemned Appollis for his role in the transaction, noting his silence throughout proceedings demonstrated “a chilling lack of remorse.” Van Rhyn, a father himself, received equal condemnation for his participation.
Alongside their life sentences for human trafficking, the trio received concurrent 10-year terms for kidnapping. Their names will be permanently recorded in South Africa’s National Child Protection Register, barring them from any future contact with minors.
Ongoing Mystery
Despite the legal resolution, Joshlin’s whereabouts remain unknown eighteen months after her disappearance. Investigators continue to pursue leads regarding the sangoma allegedly involved in the case.
The sentencing brings partial closure to a case that shocked the nation and highlighted South Africa’s ongoing battle against child trafficking networks.