American Missionary Kidnapped in South Africa During Church Service

American missionary Josh Sullivan was kidnapped at gunpoint in South Africa during a sermon at his church. The armed men, who also robbed congregants, fled in Sullivan’s vehicle. His family remained unharmed and is receiving support from friends and U.S. officials, while police are investigating the incident.

Josh Sullivan, an American missionary, was kidnapped by four armed men on Thursday night while delivering a sermon at Fellowship Baptist Church in Gqeberha, South Africa. The assailants entered the church, robbed congregants of their cellphones, and abducted Sullivan, fleeing in his vehicle. His wife and six children were present during the incident but remained unharmed.

Local authorities quickly found Sullivan’s abandoned vehicle post-abduction. The anti-gang unit of the South African Police is leading the investigation into the kidnapping, as confirmed by a police spokesperson to Algoa FM News. Police are also pursuing leads related to potential suspects involved in the case, according to Sullivan’s friends and fellow missionaries, Jeremy and Rebekah Hall, who are currently supporting his family.

Sullivan’s mother posted on Facebook, noting that U.S. Congressman Tim Burchett and the American embassy in South Africa are assisting in efforts to locate her son. Originally, Sullivan moved with his family to South Africa in 2018 to establish a church for the Xhosa-speaking community. His background includes attending a satellite school of Macedonia Baptist College and working as a staff member at Fellowship Baptist Church in Maryville, Tennessee.

Incidents of violence, such as armed robberies, have been reported in the Gqeberha region, including a church robbery in March that involved carjackings and gun violence. The environment indicates an increase in crime severity, prompting heightened concerns among local residents.

The kidnapping of Josh Sullivan underscores the risks faced by missionaries in violent regions. Authorities are actively investigating the case while Sullivan’s family receives support from friends and U.S. officials. This incident reflects ongoing challenges in South Africa, particularly in areas like Gqeberha, where violent crime rates are rising.

Original Source: wng.org