Rescue of American Pastor Highlights Rising Kidnapping Concerns in South Africa

South African police rescued American pastor Josh Sullivan, kidnapped during a church service. The operation involved a shootout in Gqeberha, resulting in three suspects killed. Sullivan was unharmed and in good health. Kidnappings have surged 264% in South Africa over the past decade, prompting safety advisories for travelers.

On April 16, South African authorities successfully rescued an American pastor, Josh Sullivan, aged 45, who was kidnapped during a church service. The Fellowship Baptist Church in Tennessee identified Sullivan, who was taken at gunpoint by six men last week. The South African Police Service’s Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation, known as the Hawks, executed the rescue during a shootout with armed suspects, resulting in three fatalities at the scene.

The confrontation occurred in Gqeberha, South Africa, where officers were engaged by suspects who opened fire as they attempted to escape. Lt. Col. Avele Fumba praised the officers’ tactical precision during the operation. Sullivan was found unharmed inside a vehicle and subsequently assessed by medical personnel, with reports indicating he is in excellent condition.

Following the rescue, the Fellowship Baptist Church expressed their gratitude on Facebook, stating, “Praise the Lord!” Sullivan’s mission in South Africa is related to church planting, as noted on his personal website. The U.S. State Department has advised American travelers to South Africa to exercise heightened caution due to risks of crime, civil unrest, and kidnapping.

An advisory warns that kidnappers are a considerable threat, particularly to U.S. citizens and foreign travelers, often motivated by financial gain. Statistics indicate a stark rise in kidnappings in South Africa, which have increased by 264% over the last decade, highlighting the dangers present in the region.

Authorities in South Africa have successfully rescued American pastor Josh Sullivan from a kidnapping incident that escalated to a shootout. Sullivan was unharmed and is in good health following the incident. The alarming rise in kidnappings in the country underscores the risks faced by foreigners, prompting government advisories to encourage caution among travelers.

Original Source: www.upi.com