South African Woman on Trial for Allegedly Kidnapping and Selling Daughter
Racquel Chantel Smith is on trial for kidnapping her daughter Joshlin and attempting to sell her, alongside her partner and friend. Joshlin has been missing since February 2024, and the case has drawn national attention and community protests. The defendants face serious charges, including human trafficking, and could receive life sentences if convicted.
On March 3, 2025, a South African woman named Racquel Chantel Smith began her trial for allegedly kidnapping and selling her young daughter, Joshlin, who has been missing since February 2024. Alongside Smith are her partner, Jacquin Appollis, and friend, Steveno van Rhyn. The defendants face charges of kidnapping and human trafficking, all of which they have pleaded not guilty to.
The case sparked significant public interest, with Smith initially receiving sympathy from the community as they united to search for Joshlin. It was reported that Smith had left her daughter with Appollis on the day of her disappearance. Evidence suggests that Smith had been planning to sell Joshlin and her other children since August 2023, according to prosecutors.
The trial is taking place in Saldanha Bay to allow community members to observe the proceedings. Outside the sports hall, there have been demonstrations demanding the return of Joshlin, reflecting community anger over the situation. Judge Nathan Erasmus warned that a conviction could lead to life imprisonment for the defendants.
The case of Racquel Chantel Smith centers on the alleged kidnapping and sale of her daughter, Joshlin, who has been missing for more than a year. The defendants face serious charges, and the trial has drawn public outrage and community involvement, indicating the emotional weight of the case. With the potential for life sentences, the trial is critical for both the defendants and the quest for justice for Joshlin.
Original Source: halifax.citynews.ca
