American pastor rescued after being abducted in Gqeberha
Three suspects were fatally shot during a gun battle with police amid the rescue of a kidnapped American pastor…
American pastor Josh Sullivan, 45, has been freed after being reportedly abducted during a church service in Gqeberha, Eastern Cape.
The rescue took place on Tuesday, 15 April.
AMERICAN PASTOR KIDNAPPED IN GQEBERHA RESCUED
According to the South African Police Service (SAPS), the rescue operation was based on verified intelligence. A coordinated response team, including the Hawks’ Serious Organised Crime Investigation Unit, the Anti-Gang Unit, Crime Intelligence, the Tactical Response Team, and other law enforcement agencies, acted quickly on the information and proceeded to the targeted location.
Eastern Cape SAPS spokesperson, Lieutenant-Colonel Avele Fumba, said that as officers neared a house in KwaMagxaki, they spotted a vehicle on the property. The suspects inside reportedly tried to escape and allegedly opened fire on the approaching officers.
“The officers responded with tactical precision, leading to a high-intensity shootout in which three unidentified suspects were fatally wounded,” Fumba said.
Miraculously, the 45-year-old pastor, who was found in the same vehicle the suspects allegedly launched their attack in, was unharmed. He was immediately assessed by medical personnel and is currently in excellent condition.
“This operation demonstrates the critical importance of inter-agency collaboration and timely intelligence in tackling serious organised crime. The Hawks commend the bravery and professionalism of all officers and support personnel involved in securing the victim’s safe return.
“We extend sincere appreciation to all role players that include our law enforcement members, the public, international partners, both local and international media whose support and vigilance were instrumental in this success,” Fumba added.
Police have requested privacy for the victim and his family as they navigate this period of recovery.
Authorities are appealing to the public for any credible information that could support the ongoing investigation. Tip-offs can be shared anonymously through the MySAPS App or by calling the Crime Stop hotline at 08600 10111.
According to TimesLIVE, the kidnapping occurred during a Thursday evening sermon at the Fellowship Baptist Church in Motherwell, just after 7pm. Six masked men—some reportedly armed—stormed into the church, assaulted the 45-year-old American pastor, and forced him outside, where they bundled him into his vehicle.
HAWKS HEAD HAILS MEN AND WOMEN IN BLUE
Meanwhile, Eastern Cape Hawks head Major General Mboiki Obed Ngwenya, commended the operational team for their courage, discipline and tactical excellence under fire.
Ngwenya also thanked senior government officials for their visible and personal support during this critical period, reaffirming that such united efforts send a strong message to those threatening the nation’s safety and sovereignty.