Written by: Gillian Fraser
American missionary and pastor Josh Sullivan has been rescued unharmed following a dramatic police operation in the Eastern Cape, after he was kidnapped during a church service last week. Three suspects were killed during a shoot-out with law enforcement.
Sullivan, who was abducted on Thursday evening from Fellowship Baptist Church in Motherwell, was held captive at a safe house in KwaMagxaki, Gqeberha. The kidnapping took place during a sermon when six masked assailants, some armed, stormed the service. According to fellow pastor Mark Coffey, who spoke to media from the United States, the suspects pistol-whipped Sullivan and forced him into a vehicle outside the church.
The Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (Hawks) launched an intelligence-led, multidisciplinary operation which led authorities to the address in KwaMagxaki on Tuesday.
“As officers approached the house, they observed a vehicle on the premises. The suspects inside the vehicle allegedly attempted to flee and opened fire on the team,” said Hawks spokesperson Lieutenant Colonel Avele Fumba.
“The officers responded, leading to a high-intensity shoot-out in which three unidentified suspects were fatally wounded,” Fumba confirmed. “The victim was found inside the same vehicle. Miraculously unharmed, he was assessed by medical personnel and is in excellent condition.”
The successful rescue involved a coordinated team effort, including the Hawks’ Serious Organised Crime Investigation Unit, the Anti-Gang Unit, Crime Intelligence, the Tactical Response Team, and other law enforcement partners.
“This demonstrates the importance of inter-agency collaboration and timely intelligence in tackling serious organised crime,” Fumba added. “The Hawks commend the bravery and professionalism of all officers and support personnel involved in securing the victim’s safe return.”
Provincial Hawks Head, Major General Mboiki Obed Ngwenya, commended the team’s decisive action under pressure.
“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,” said Fumba.
“The operational team is to be commended for their courage, discipline and tactical excellence under fire,” Ngwenya added. “We also thank senior government officials for their visible and personal support during this critical period, reaffirming that such united efforts send a strong message to those who threaten the safety and sovereignty of our nation.”
Pastor Sullivan, who moved to South Africa with his wife Meagan in 2015 as part of a Bible training internship, returned in 2018 to serve as a full-time missionary. Following the ordeal, he has since been reunited with his wife and children.
In a heartfelt statement on Facebook, Pastor Mark Coffey expressed gratitude on behalf of the family:
“After days of uncertainty and fervent prayer, our hearts are overflowing with gratitude. Words cannot fully express how thankful we are for the hundreds of thousands of people around the world for their prayers. We are also deeply grateful for the tireless efforts of local authorities and rescue teams who worked with determination and skill to help bring Josh home. Their courage and professionalism are a testimony to God’s grace in using people from all walks of life to accomplish His purposes. Thank you for standing with us. Please continue to pray for the Sullivan family as they rest and recover.”
Authorities have appealed to the public for any information that may assist in the ongoing investigation.
Anyone with credible tips is urged to contact the Crime Stop hotline on 08600 10111 or submit information anonymously through the MySAPS App.
As investigations continue, the Hawks have requested privacy for the Sullivan family during this time of healing.
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Date published: 16/04/2025
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