US Missionary Josh Sullivan Rescued After Kidnapping in South Africa

Josh Sullivan, a US missionary, was rescued by South African police after being kidnapped at his church in Motherwell. The operation took place during a shootout, where three suspects were killed. Kidnappings in South Africa have risen drastically, with over 17,000 cases reported in 2023/2024, marking an 11% increase from the previous year.

A United States missionary, Josh Sullivan, was successfully rescued by police after being kidnapped from his church in Motherwell, South Africa. This operation took place during a police shootout in Gqeberha, resulting in the deaths of three suspects involved in the kidnapping. Sullivan, aged 45, was forcibly taken at gunpoint while delivering a sermon at the Fellowship Baptist Church.

The rescue mission commenced following police intelligence. Officers located a house in the KwaMagxaki area, where the suspects attempted an escape in a vehicle while firing at the police. The ensuing exchange of gunfire led to the fatal injuries of all three suspects, while Sullivan was discovered “miraculously unharmed” within the vehicle.

Sullivan, who relocated to South Africa from Tennessee in 2018, fell victim to a kidnapping amid escalating crime in the region. Reports by South African police have indicated an 11% increase in kidnappings for the 2023/2024 financial year, with more than 17,000 incidents reported, highlighting a concerning trend in public safety.

The rescue of Josh Sullivan underscores the risks faced by individuals in South Africa, where kidnapping incidents are on the rise. The police’s decisive action led to the successful recovery of Sullivan without injury. This incident illustrates the growing concerns regarding security in the region and the significant increase in reported kidnappings, emphasizing the need for ongoing vigilance and enhanced safety measures.

Original Source: newscentral.africa