U.S. Missionary Abducted During Church Service in South Africa

A U.S. missionary, Josh Sullivan, was kidnapped in South Africa during a church service. He was preaching to a small congregation when armed men abducted him and stole his vehicle. The South African police have initiated an investigation, with a rise in kidnappings noted in recent statistics. The U.S. Department of State is aware of the incident and prioritizes citizen safety abroad.

In South Africa, a U.S. missionary named Josh Sullivan was reportedly kidnapped at gunpoint during a church service at Fellowship Baptist Church in Motherwell. The incident occurred while he was preaching to approximately 30 congregants, including his wife and children. Reports indicate that the assailants stole two mobile phones and left in Sullivan’s vehicle, a silver Toyota Fortuner, which was later found abandoned without any sign of him.

The South African Police Service has assigned the investigation to an elite unit known as the Hawks, specializing in serious organized crimes. Sullivan and his family moved to South Africa in November 2018 to attend language school and establish a church serving the Xhosa-speaking population. Sullivan’s mother, Tonay Rinker, confirmed his abduction and expressed her concern, stating that as a mother, it is unimaginable to face such a situation while highlighting her son’s humor and kindness.

The U.S. Department of State has acknowledged awareness of the kidnapping incident and affirmed that the safety of U.S. citizens abroad is a top priority. Disturbingly, statistics reveal that kidnappings in South Africa have seen a 264% increase over the last decade, bringing attention to the alarming rise in such crimes in the region.

In summary, Josh Sullivan, a U.S. missionary, was abducted during a church service in South Africa, prompting a serious investigation by local authorities. His family’s efforts to support his mission and the rising statistics on kidnappings in the country underscore the growing risk for expatriates. The acknowledgment of the case by the U.S. Department of State further emphasizes the importance of ensuring safety for American citizens abroad.

Original Source: wtov9.com