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American Pastor Abducted During Church Service in South Africa
An American pastor was kidnapped by armed individuals who stormed his church service in South Africa, according to local authorities. The incident occurred at Fellowship Baptist Church in Motherwell, a township in Gqeberha, Eastern Cape.
Details of the Abduction
Police spokesman Captain Andre Beetge stated that Josh Sullivan was leading a service at Fellowship Baptist Church on Thursday evening when “four armed and masked male suspects entered.” The assailants reportedly seized two mobile phones before fleeing the church premises in the 45-year-old pastor’s silver Toyota Fortuner.
Vehicle Recovered, Pastor Still Missing
Law enforcement officials later located the vehicle abandoned. However, Mr. Sullivan was not found at the scene, and his whereabouts remain unknown as of now.
US State Department Aware of Kidnapping
A spokesperson for the US State Department confirmed they are aware of the kidnapping of a US citizen in South Africa. The State Department emphasized the “safety and security of US citizens abroad” as a top priority.
Elite Police Unit Investigating
Captain Beetge disclosed that the case has been transferred to South Africa’s specialized police unit, the Hawks. This unit is responsible for investigating serious organized crime, commercial offenses, and high-level corruption.
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Ongoing Investigation
Hawks spokesman Lt Col Avele Fumba stated, “The police are currently pursuing all viable leads to locate the victim and apprehend the perpetrators.”
Eyewitness Account
Jeremy Hall, a spokesperson for the Sullivan family, informed local media outlet TimesLive that he and his family were present at the church when the abduction unfolded. He recounted that the perpetrators “knew his name,” suggesting a targeted attack.
Family’s Plea for Safe Return
Tonya Morton Rinker, Mr. Sullivan’s mother, expressed her distress on Facebook, stating she was heartbroken by the news. She also mentioned that “Our congressman and American embassy are working on finding him,” indicating diplomatic efforts are underway.
No Ransom Demand Yet
According to News24, a privately-owned news organization, no ransom demand has been made in connection with the kidnapping.
Pastor’s Missionary Work in South Africa
Mr. Sullivan’s personal website describes him as “a church planting missionary.” The website further reveals that he relocated to South Africa with his family in 2018 to establish a church catering to the Xhosa-speaking community.
Increased Kidnapping Rates in South Africa
Recent police statistics indicate a significant surge in kidnapping incidents in South Africa, with a 264% increase reported over the past decade.
Recent Kidnapping in Gqeberha
This incident follows closely after the kidnapping of a Chinese national in Gqeberha just days prior, highlighting a concerning trend in the region.