Gqeberha, South Africa – April, 2025: A kidnapped American pastor was rescued by South African law enforcement officials following a deadly shootout at a house in the country’s Eastern Cape province. The operation, led by the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (HAWKS), successfully freed 34-year-old Josh Sullivan, a Tennessee native, who had been held captive since his abduction on April 13.
Sullivan, a pastor at Fellowship Baptist Church in the Eastern Cape’s Motherwell, was kidnapped by a group of armed men who stormed his church during a service. The assailants dragged him away from the pulpit, and his truck was later found abandoned. The situation led to a multi-agency response, with the U.S. State Department working alongside local authorities to secure his release.
According to a statement from the HAWKS, the rescue operation targeted a safe house in the KwaMagxaki area of Gqeberha, where Sullivan was believed to be held. Upon arrival, law enforcement officers encountered gunfire from suspects inside a vehicle on the premises. A high-intensity shootout ensued, resulting in the deaths of three suspects.
Sullivan was found unharmed inside the same car used by the suspects, and police confirmed he is in “excellent condition.” The successful operation marked the end of a harrowing week for Sullivan’s family and church community, who had been anxiously awaiting news of his whereabouts.
In a heartfelt social media post, Tom Hatley, pastor of Fellowship Baptist Church in Maryville, Tennessee, expressed his relief, stating, “Josh has been released. I just got ‘the go ahead to let it be known’. Thank you for your support and prayers. Please do not stop praying for The Sullivans. Praise The Lord Jesus Christ!”
The kidnapping of Josh Sullivan highlights the growing concerns surrounding rising armed robberies and violence in South Africa in recent years. Authorities have not yet identified all individuals involved, but they continue to investigate the matter.
The U.S. State Department also confirmed its involvement, with a spokesperson noting that a multi-agency team, including the Diplomatic Security Service, was actively supporting the investigation on the ground.
Sullivan’s kidnapping and subsequent rescue have drawn widespread attention, particularly within the American church community, where he was known for his years of service and leadership under Pastor Hatley at Fellowship Baptist Church. His safe return has been hailed as a miracle, and prayers for his recovery and safety continue to pour in from across the globe.