Kidnapping of US Pastor Josh Sullivan: Ransom Demands Reported

Josh Sullivan, a US missionary, was kidnapped in South Africa during a church service. The incident is believed to be a ransom-related crime, with police forming a task force to locate him. The exact ransom amount has not been revealed, but Sullivan’s church is rallying for prayers and support.

Josh Sullivan, a US missionary, was kidnapped on Thursday night in South Africa during a sermon at the Fellowship Baptist Church in Motherwell, Gqeberha. His kidnapping is suspected to be financially motivated as the region has seen an increase in similar crimes targeting individuals for ransom. A colleague asserted that Sullivan’s case aligns with this pattern of ransom kidnappings in South Africa.

During the incident, four armed and masked suspects entered the church, robbed congregants, and abducted the 45-year-old Sullivan, who was driving a Toyota Fortuner. Police confirmed that the vehicle was later recovered in Motherwell, and two cell phones were stolen in the process. The US State Department acknowledged awareness of the incident but had limited information to share publicly.

Rev. Jeremy Hall speculated the kidnapping was likely “financially related.” Following Sullivan’s abduction, a special task force from multiple police units was formed to locate him and arrest the suspects. Law enforcement confirmed that a ransom was indeed demanded, though the specific amount remains undisclosed.

Sullivan was leading a prayer gathering attended by approximately 30 individuals, including his family, just before the kidnapping occurred. He has been serving at Fellowship Baptist Church in Maryville, Tennessee, since February 2012. The church has reached out to its community for prayers, stating, “Please pray for Josh Sullivan, missionary to South Africa.”

The kidnapping of US missionary Josh Sullivan highlights the increasing trend of ransom-related abductions in South Africa. Law enforcement agencies are actively pursuing leads to ensure his safe return, while the exact ransom demanded by the kidnappers remains undisclosed. Sullivan’s church community and family are appealing for prayers during this critical time.

Original Source: www.hindustantimes.com