In a swift and high-stakes operation, the Hawks have successfully rescued American pastor Josh Sullivan, who was kidnapped at gunpoint during a church service in Motherwell, Gqeberha, on April 10, 2025.
Pastor Sullivan, who had been in South Africa for a religious outreach program, was abducted by armed suspects in front of a congregation mid-sermon, sending shockwaves through the local and international faith community. The brazen kidnapping prompted an immediate and coordinated response from law enforcement, led by the Hawks’ serious organized crime investigation unit.
Officials confirmed that Pastor Sullivan was found alive and unharmed, although visibly shaken, and is currently receiving medical care and trauma counseling. The successful rescue took place after days of intensive tracking, intelligence gathering, and collaboration between multiple agencies.
“This was a calculated and violent crime, but thanks to swift action and cooperation between law enforcement units, we were able to rescue Pastor Sullivan and bring him to safety,” said a Hawks spokesperson.
Details around the motive and identities of the kidnappers remain under investigation, but sources indicate that a ransom demand may have been involved. Arrests are expected as the Hawks continue to pursue leads.
The rescue has been met with relief and praise from both local and international communities, especially from Sullivan’s home church in the United States, which had been working with authorities since the day of his disappearance.
This incident once again highlights the growing concern around targeted kidnappings in South Africa, with police urging vigilance and continued public cooperation in reporting suspicious activity.
