U.S. Missionary Abducted During Sermon in South Africa Amid Rising Kidnapping Incidents

In a shocking incident, a U.S. missionary was abducted from the Fellowship Baptist Church in Motherwell, South Africa, while delivering a sermon. The victim, identified as Pastor Josh Sullivan, was taken by four armed and masked suspects during a prayer meeting on Thursday evening. The incident has raised concerns about the rising trend of kidnappings in the country, particularly targeting individuals for ransom.

Details of the Abduction

According to police reports, the armed suspects entered the church during the sermon, robbed two cell phones, and subsequently took the 45-year-old pastor with them as they fled the scene. The U.S. State Department confirmed their awareness of the kidnapping, indicating the involvement of an American citizen in the incident.

Impact on the Community

Rev. Jeremy Hall, a fellow pastor in the region, expressed the belief that the abduction was likely to be financially motivated. The incident has left the local community in shock, especially as Sullivan was holding a prayer meeting with his family and congregants at the time of the kidnapping. The armed assailants reportedly knew Sullivan by name, further adding to the distressing nature of the event.

Sullivan, who moved to South Africa from Tennessee in November 2018, had been actively involved in missionary work. His personal website indicated plans to finish language school and establish a church for the Xhosa-speaking community. Additionally, Sullivan had been associated with the Fellowship Baptist Church in Maryville, Tennessee, since February 2012, highlighting his long-standing commitment to his faith and community.

Community Response

The Fellowship Baptist Church in Maryville expressed their concern for Sullivan, urging the community to pray for his safe return. The heart-wrenching post on the church's Facebook page emphasized the gravity of the situation, calling for prayers and support for the missionary and his family during this challenging time.

Rising Kidnapping Incidents in South Africa

This incident is not an isolated case, as South Africa has witnessed a significant surge in kidnapping incidents in recent years. Police statistics indicate over 17,000 kidnappings in the 2023-2024 financial year, marking an 11 percent increase compared to the previous year. Furthermore, the nation is grappling with escalating gun violence, with an alarming statistic of 33 people being killed by guns every day, according to Gun Free South Africa, a nonprofit organization advocating for reduced gun violence.

Global Concern

The abduction of Pastor Josh Sullivan has drawn attention not only locally but also globally, as it underscores the urgent need to address the issue of rising crime rates and violence in South Africa. The international community is closely monitoring the situation, advocating for the safety and well-being of individuals in the region.