An American pastor, Josh Sullivan, who was abducted during a prayer service in South Africa, has been successfully rescued following a high-intensity shootout that left three suspects dead.
Sullivan, 35, was kidnapped last week while leading a prayer session at a small branch of the Fellowship Baptist Church in Motherwell, South Africa. The Tennessee-based missionary, who has lived in the country with his wife Meagan and their children since 2018, was taken by armed men in a raid that shocked the local Christian community.
The South African Police Service's elite unit, the Hawks, spearheaded the rescue operation after receiving credible intelligence. The pastor was located approximately 14 miles from Motherwell, near the city of Gqeberha, in a safe house. As the suspects attempted to flee with Sullivan in a vehicle, law enforcement agents engaged them in a tactical operation that resulted in a deadly exchange of gunfire.
Authorities confirmed that three unidentified suspects were fatally wounded in the gunfight. Miraculously, Sullivan emerged from the ordeal unharmed and was promptly assessed by medical personnel. He has since reunited with his family and is said to be in excellent condition.
His mother, Tonya Morton Rinker, expressed deep gratitude in a Facebook post, writing, “A sad situation but I’m so thankful my son is home alive and safe. Thank you Lord!”
The Fellowship Baptist Church, which had been urging prayers for his release, also addressed criticism directed at their missionary activities, describing some public reactions as “malicious and hateful.”
South African police continue to investigate the abduction and have appealed to the public for any additional information that could aid in bringing others involved to justice.
“We extend sincere appreciation to all role players, including law enforcement, international partners, and the media, whose vigilance was instrumental in this success,” the police said in a statement.
