Josh Sullivan, an American pastor, was kidnapped during a church service in Gqeberha, South Africa, amid a notable rise in kidnappings, with over 17,000 incidents reported last year. The police, led by the Anti-Gang Unit, have launched an investigation following the incident, which also involved theft. Sullivan’s family escaped unharmed, stirring concerns over targeted abductions related to faith in the context of escalating violence in the region.
The alarming rise in kidnappings in South Africa has become increasingly concerning, as the case of Josh Sullivan, an American pastor abducted during a church service in Gqeberha, highlights this trend. On April 10, armed individuals entered the Fellowship Baptist Church, taking Sullivan alongside two cell phones from congregants while stealing his vehicle. Sullivan’s abandoned SUV was later discovered, prompting a police investigation led by the Anti-Gang Unit. Authorities urge anyone with knowledge of the incident to come forward.
Since 2018, Sullivan, 45, has been engaged in ministry work in South Africa. On the night of his kidnapping, approximately 30 church members, including his wife and children, fortunately escaped unscathed. Media reports indicate that Sullivan’s abduction marks the third such incident in the region in recent weeks, following another kidnapping event involving a teacher and a Chinese national.
The U.S. State Department has acknowledged the incident, reaffirming its commitment to ensuring the safety of its citizens abroad. With over 17,000 kidnappings recorded in the last year—an alarming increase from 4,692 a decade ago—concerns grow that Sullivan might have been targeted due to his faith. South Africa’s surging crime rate, associated with armed robberies, has fueled heightened anxiety regarding public safety.
In conclusion, the troubling spike in kidnappings within South Africa signifies a dire need for heightened awareness and safety measures. The case of Josh Sullivan not only underscores the risks faced by foreign nationals but also reflects broader societal issues of violence and crime. The ongoing investigation by the police exemplifies the urgency with which authorities must act to address these rising threats.
Original Source: san.com
