The kidnapping of Pastor Josh Sullivan at Fellowship Baptist Church in Motherwell highlights increasing violence in South Africa, where abduction incidents have surged over the past decade. Local authorities are making concerted efforts to locate Sullivan, with support from US officials.
American Pastor Kidnapped During Church Service in South Africa
American Pastor Kidnapped During Church Service in South Africa
Josh Sullivan, an American missionary, was abducted by armed men during a church service, prompting an investigation from South African authorities.
An American pastor has reportedly been kidnapped by armed assailants during a church service in South Africa's Eastern Cape, sparking widespread concern and an urgent investigation by local law enforcement. Josh Sullivan, who has been living in South Africa since 2018, was leading a service at Fellowship Baptist Church in Motherwell when four masked men stormed in on Thursday evening. According to police spokesman Captain Andre Beetge, the men stole two mobile phones before fleeing the scene in Sullivan's silver Toyota Fortuner. Authorities later discovered the vehicle abandoned, but there have been no updates regarding Sullivan's whereabouts.
The US State Department has confirmed awareness of the situation, underscoring their commitment to ensuring the safety of American citizens abroad. “There is no greater priority than the safety and security of US citizens abroad,” a spokesperson stated. The case has been handed over to South Africa’s elite police unit, the Hawks, which specializes in serious crimes and corruption, as they pursue leads in the ongoing investigation.
Jeremy Hall, representing the Sullivan family, disclosed that the pastor's wife and children were present during the incident, and noted that the assailants appeared to know Sullivan by name. His mother, Tonya Morton Rinker, expressed her heartbreak on social media, revealing that efforts are being made by local congressional representatives and the American embassy to aid in the search. Reports indicate that no ransom has yet been demanded for Sullivan's release.
The troubling incident comes on the heels of alarming statistics indicating a 264% rise in kidnappings in South Africa over the past decade, underscoring an escalating crisis in security. A recent kidnapping of a Chinese national in the same region further exemplifies the urgent need for effective measures to combat such crimes.
As the family and community hope for Sullivan's safe return, this incident casts a spotlight on the broader issues of violence and safety in South Africa, prompting critical discussions on how to address the increasing problem of abductions.
