Mother sells daughter for 975 euros: lifelong imprisonment in South Africa!

Mother sells daughter for 975 euros: lifelong imprisonment in South Africa!

A shocking case from South Africa has put confidence in the social norms and the protection of children. A mother was sentenced to life imprisonment after selling her daughter to a traditional healer for the equivalent of 975 euros. These informed sources report that the child was sought after because of her "eyes and skin" and that the mother tried to escape her drug addiction with her daughter's resale. Despite extensive police search measures, the girl, Joshlin Smith, remains disappeared and was not found.

The judge of the Supreme Court argued that the drug addiction of the three defendants was "no excuse" for their actions. He emphasized that there were no mitigating circumstances that would justify a lower punishment. This shows the strict attitude of the judiciary towards such crimes that are considered extremely serious in society. When the judgment was pronounced, the gravitas of the case became clear, since the child's well -being is clearly the focus here.

The effects of traditional medicine

The background of this tragic incident could be influenced by the practice of traditional medicine in Africa. In many cultures, it is believed that certain physical characteristics such as Joshlin's special healing properties have. According to an article from Spiegel on traditional medicine in Africa, it is often said that the use of such strange practices - although in question - is still widespread. The delimitation of science and Tradition is often not clear what can lead to harmful practices that ultimately cost human lives.

The events raise serious questions, both through the protection of children in difficult conditions and through the deeply rooted social beliefs that enable such crimes. Already in earlier cases, the influence of traditional healers on people's lives, but also negatively emphasized. This problem requires sensitive and differentiated approach to better protect and clarify children in such umbudes.