American pastor Josh Sullivan, who was kidnapped at gunpoint last week in South Africa, was rescued late Tuesday in a dramatic shootout that left three suspects dead, according to local authorities.
The 35-year-old Sullivan was abducted by armed men who stormed his small Baptist congregation in the town of Motherwell during a prayer service. He had been living in South Africa with his wife, Meagan, and their children since 2018.
The rescue operation was conducted by South Africa’s elite police unit, the Hawks, along with other law enforcement teams, after verified intelligence led them to a safehouse in Gqeberha, about 14 miles from Motherwell. Police said they engaged in a “high-intensity shootout” with three suspects attempting to flee in a vehicle, resulting in the suspects being fatally wounded.
Miraculously, Sullivan who was inside the vehicle was found unharmed. He was examined by medical personnel and reported to be in “excellent condition.” His mother, Tonya Morton Rinker, confirmed his safe return in a Facebook post, writing, “A sad situation but I’m so thankful my son is home alive and safe. Thank you Lord!”
Prior to his rescue, Sullivan’s church, Fellowship Baptist Church, based in Tennessee, had requested prayers for his safe return. The church also addressed what it called “malicious and hateful” messages questioning its missionary work in the wake of the kidnapping.
South African police vowed to continue investigating the abduction and urged anyone with information to come forward. Authorities expressed gratitude to law enforcement, the public, and international partners for their role in the successful rescue.
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