US Pastor Rescued in South Africa After Kidnapping Incident

American pastor Josh Sullivan was rescued in South Africa after being abducted during a sermon. He was unharmed following a police shootout that led to the death of three kidnappers. Sullivan has lived in South Africa since 2018 with his family, and his case highlights the rising trend of kidnappings in the country.

In a dramatic rescue, South African police saved American pastor Josh Sullivan, who was kidnapped during a sermon in the Eastern Cape. Sullivan, 45, was taken from the Motherwell township branch of the Fellowship Baptist Church by armed assailants last Thursday. Following his abduction, police launched a multi-agency investigation that included the Anti-Gang Unit and Serious Organised Crime Unit.

The police located Sullivan in KwaMagxaki, Gqeberha, about 20 minutes from the church. A shootout ensued when the suspects attempted to flee in a vehicle, leading to the deaths of three unidentified kidnappers. Thankfully, Sullivan was found unharmed in the vehicle and received immediate medical attention.

Since 2018, Sullivan has lived in South Africa with his wife Meagan and their two children. He was abducted alongside two congregation members who had their cellphones stolen by the assailants. Following a spike in kidnappings, which have increased by 264% in South Africa over the past decade, Sullivan’s case highlights concerns about safety and security in the region.

The Institute of Security Studies reports that the majority of kidnappings in South Africa are not linked to ransom demands but are more often associated with violent crimes like armed robbery. After his rescue, Sullivan was reunited with his family, with Tom Hatley, a training pastor, sharing the news on social media. Sullivan’s return prompted expressions of gratitude for community support and encouragement to continue praying for the family.

The successful rescue of Pastor Josh Sullivan underscores the risks of kidnapping in South Africa, where such incidents have surged over a decade. Sullivan’s case, marked by police collaboration and a dramatic shootout, reveals both the dangers faced by missionaries and the broader societal issues surrounding crime in the region.

Original Source: www.independent.co.uk