The U.S. Mission to South Africa has conveyed its deep gratitude to the South African Police Service (SAPS) for their efforts in locating and rescuing Josh Sullivan, an American pastor who was kidnapped at gunpoint during a church service in Motherwell, Eastern Cape, last week.
“We commend the swift, coordinated SAPS response, led by the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (the Hawks), in collaboration with the Serious Organised Crime Investigation team, Anti-Gang Unit, Crime Intelligence, Tactical Response Team, and other partners,” the US Embassy in South Africa said in a statement.
The embassy expressed gratitude for the police's collaboration with the US Mission.
"The US Mission continues to be dedicated to ongoing cooperation with their South African partners to enhance the safety and security of American citizens," the statement read.
Last Thursday, on April 10, Sullivan was abducted during an evening church service in Motherwell.
The police stated that four masked gunmen interrupted the ceremony, seized Sullivan under threat of their weapons, and took away two mobile phones.
The alleged perpetrators compelled Sullivan into his Ford Ranger, which was subsequently discovered deserted.
He remained imprisoned for five days until he was freed on Tuesday, April 15, after an intelligence-led mission conducted by the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation, referred to as the Hawks.
Sullivan was discovered safe and sound at a residence in Gqeberha.
Once the police intervened, individuals inside an occupied car started shooting at them. Nonetheless, law enforcement responded forcefully, resulting in the deaths of three suspects right then.
Previously, IOL News had reported that Sullivan’s mother posted a heartfelt message on Facebook after her son’s release.
“He’s home, my baby is free! Joshua was released earlier today!! He is home with Meagan and the kids. "Praise God for His kindness and compassion," she penned.
Thanks for your support and prayers. Kindly keep praying for him, Meagan, and the children as well as our entire family. Glory be to the Lord Jesus Christ.
In an independent message, missionaries Mark and Amy Coffey expressed their family’s thankfulness and strong belief.
“We’re overjoyed to share that Missionary Josh Sullivan has been safely rescued. After days of uncertainty and fervent prayer, we rejoice in the faithfulness and protection of our great God,” they wrote.
“Josh’s rescue is a powerful picture of the greater rescue we all need. As Josh was delivered from captivity, so too can we be saved from spiritual bondage through Christ.”
They asked for continued prayers for the Sullivan family’s recovery and for ongoing Gospel work in South Africa.
simon.majadibodu@iol.co.za
IOL News