US Pastor Josh Sullivan Kidnapped During Church Service in South Africa
Pastor Josh Sullivan was kidnapped during a church service in South Africa by masked assailants. The incident is being investigated by local authorities and the US State Department is involved. There is a significant rise in kidnappings in the region, and no ransom has been demanded so far.
An American pastor has been abducted during a church service in South Africa. Josh Sullivan was conducting a gathering at Fellowship Baptist Church, located in Motherwell, Gqeberha, when four armed and masked assailants entered the premises, as reported by police spokesman Captain Andre Beetge. The intruders reportedly stole two mobile phones before escaping in the pastor’s vehicle, a silver Toyota Fortuner, which has since been located abandoned, with no sign of Mr. Sullivan found.
The incident has captured the attention of the US State Department, which is monitoring the kidnapping of a US citizen in South Africa. A representative stated that ensuring the safety and security of American citizens overseas remains their highest priority. In response to the case, the South African police’s elite unit, the Hawks, has taken over the investigation, focusing on organized crime and high-profile cases. Lt Col Avele Fumba, a spokesman for the Hawks, indicated that efforts are ongoing to track down the victim and apprehend the suspects involved.
Jeremy Hall, serving as the spokesman for the Sullivan family, recounted the distressing episode, revealing that he and his family were present at the church during the kidnapping. Hall noted, “They knew his name,” suggesting a targeted attack. Mr. Sullivan’s mother, Tonya Morton Rinker, expressed her anguish on Facebook, mentioning that efforts from their congressman and the American embassy are underway to facilitate his safe return.
As of now, no ransom demands have been reported, according to News24. On his personal website, Mr. Sullivan describes himself as “a church planting missionary” who relocated to South Africa in 2018, alongside his wife and children, to establish a church for Xhosa-speaking individuals. Notably, there has been a staggering 264% rise in kidnappings in South Africa over the past decade, highlighting the concerning trend in the region.
The abduction of Pastor Josh Sullivan during a church service underscores the alarming trend of rising kidnappings in South Africa. With the investigation led by the Hawks and support from US authorities, efforts are being made to locate Mr. Sullivan and apprehend those responsible for the crime. The incident highlights the vital work of missionaries and the growing dangers they face abroad.
Original Source: www.bbc.co.uk
