Pastor Josh Sullivan freed after five days in captivity
Key Points:
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Armed men kidnapped Josh Sullivan during a church service in Motherwell, Eastern Cape.
- The Hawks conducted a successful rescue operation after five days, with three suspects killed.
- Sullivan’s family expressed deep gratitude for the prayers and support received.
The Kidnapping of Josh Sullivan
On April 10, 2025, armed men stormed an evening church service in Motherwell, Eastern Cape, and kidnapped American pastor Josh Sullivan. They held him at gunpoint, stole two cellphones, and forced him into his Ford Ranger. However, the kidnappers later abandoned the vehicle. Sullivan’s family and church members faced days of uncertainty as they awaited news of his whereabouts.
Police Operation Leads to Sullivan’s Rescue
After five days of captivity, the Hawks launched an intelligence-driven operation to rescue Sullivan. They found him at a house in Gqeberha on Tuesday. The police moved in on the suspects, and the suspects fired at them from a vehicle. Police retaliated, killing three of the suspects. Sullivan escaped unharmed. Sullivan’s rescue marked the end of a terrifying ordeal for his family.
Family and Missionaries Celebrate Sullivan’s Safe Return
Sullivan’s mother shared the joyous news on social media. She expressed deep gratitude and praise for his safe return: “He’s home, my baby is free! They released Joshua earlier today!! He is home with Meagan and the kids. Praise God for his grace and mercy. Thank you for your support and prayers. Please continue to pray for him, Meagan, and the kids, and our family. Praise the Lord Jesus Christ.”
Missionaries Mark and Amy Coffey also shared their joy in a heartfelt letter. They thanked God for Sullivan’s safe return and celebrated the answer to fervent prayers. “We’re overjoyed to share that we safely rescued Missionary Josh Sullivan.” After days of uncertainty and fervent prayer, we rejoice in the faithfulness and protection of our great God,” they wrote. The Coffeys also reminded the community of the greater spiritual rescue available through Christ: “As people delivered Josh from captivity, so too can we save ourselves from spiritual bondage through Christ.”
Major General Mboiki Obed Ngwenya, the Provincial Head of the Hawks in the Eastern Cape, praised the operational team for their bravery and tactical precision. He also thanked senior government officials for their visible and personal support during the operation. Ngwenya emphasized that such efforts send a strong message to those who threaten national security and safety.
