Pastor Josh Sullivan was abducted during a sermon at Fellowship Baptist Church in South Africa by four armed men. The attackers held the congregation hostage, stole valuables, and fled with Sullivan. An investigation is underway, and significant community support is emerging for his return.
A US pastor was abducted at gunpoint during a sermon in Motherwell Township, South Africa, by armed intruders. This incident occurred at the Fellowship Baptist Church on Thursday evening, when four gunmen entered the church and held the congregation hostage. The attackers demanded valuables from churchgoers, stealing two cellphones and forcibly taking Pastor Josh Sullivan, who is originally from Tennessee.
Authorities have initiated an investigation into the dual incidents of armed robbery and abduction. The pastor’s vehicle, a silver Toyota Fortuner, was discovered abandoned shortly after the crime. Although police have not officially confirmed his identity, local media have reported that the kidnapped individual is 45-year-old Josh Sullivan, who relocated to South Africa with his family in November 2018.
Sullivan, who serves as a church-planting missionary, was remembered by Tom Hatley, a person who referred to himself as his childhood and training pastor, sharing a photo of Sullivan while preaching. Hatley called for prayers for Sullivan’s safe return, highlighting community concern. Additionally, Tonya Rinker, who identifies herself as Sullivan’s mother on Facebook, expressed deep sorrow for the situation and stressed that the U.S. Embassy in South Africa is engaged in efforts to locate him.
Captain Andre Beetge, a spokesperson for the police, confirmed that the case has been assigned to the South African Police Service’s Anti-Gang Unit. He mentioned that if a ransom is demanded, the Hawks, a specialized law enforcement unit focused on organized crime, will further pursue the case. Meanwhile, an outpouring of support has emerged on social media, emphasizing solidarity in prayers for Pastor Sullivan’s safety.
The abduction of Pastor Josh Sullivan has raised significant concern both in South Africa and back home in the United States. Authorities are actively investigating the incident, and community members are rallying in support, requesting prayers for his safe return. The involvement of law enforcement units highlights the severity of the situation and the collaborative efforts being made for a resolution.
Original Source: www.indiatoday.in
