U.S. Missionary Kidnapped During Church Service in South Africa

Josh Sullivan, a U.S. missionary, was kidnapped during a church service in South Africa. The abduction occurred at the Fellowship Baptist Church in Motherwell. Police are investigating the case with the Hawks unit, as kidnappings have increased dramatically in South Africa over the past decade. His family expresses concern, and the U.S. State Department is involved.

A U.S. missionary from Tennessee, Josh Sullivan, was reportedly kidnapped at gunpoint during a church service in South Africa. The incident took place at the Fellowship Baptist Church in Motherwell, where he was preaching to approximately 30 congregants, including his family. Reports indicate that several men took two mobile phones and then fled in Sullivan’s vehicle, a silver Toyota Fortuner, which was later discovered abandoned without any sign of him.

The South African Police Service has elevated the case to an elite unit known as the Hawks, which specializes in organized and commercial crime investigations. Sullivan’s family shared insights on his mission; he relocated to South Africa in November 2018 with his family to establish a church for the Xhosa-speaking community after completing language school.

Tonay Rinker, Sullivan’s mother, confirmed the kidnapping to ABC News, expressing her deep concern and reliance on faith in this trying time. She described her son as humorous and joyful, stating, “As a mother, you never think about something like this happening to your child but faith carries you through the uncertainty.”

A spokesperson from the U.S. Department of State communicated their acknowledgment of the situation, emphasizing that the safety of U.S. citizens abroad is of utmost importance. The South African Police Service has reported a staggering 264% rise in kidnapping incidents over the past decade, highlighting a concerning trend in the country.

The reported kidnapping of Josh Sullivan underscores the rising concern regarding personal safety in South Africa, particularly concerning the alarming surge in kidnappings. His family and the U.S. authorities are closely monitoring the situation, while the investigation has been handed over to specialized police units to ensure a thorough response. This incident raises awareness about the challenges missionaries and expatriates may face in different regions across the globe.

Original Source: wtov9.com