Kidnapped US Pastor Josh Sullivan rescued after ‘high-intensity’ shootout kills 3 abductors in South Africa
US Pastor Josh Sullivan, who was kidnapped in South Africa by armed men during a church service last week, has been rescued after a “high-intensity shoot-out”.
US Pastor Josh Sullivan, who was kidnapped in South Africa by armed men during a church service last week, has been rescued after a “high-intensity shoot-out” that claimed three lives, confirmed officials.
Josh Sullivan was rescued after “verified intelligence wherein a coordinated team moved swiftly to the identified location,” Hawks said in a statement on Wednesday morning. (X@seanfeucht)
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On Tuesday night, Sullivan, 45, was rescued unharmed in the Eastern Cape township of Gqeberha.
The abductors, who are thought to have been aware of the family's whereabouts, were not immediately identified. The incident comes at a time when South Africa is witnessing a sharp rise in kidnappings for ransom.
Following Sullivan's kidnapping, South Africa's elite police force, known as the Hawks, stepped in after kidnappers demanded a ransom.
Here's how police recued Josh Sullivan
Sullivan was rescued after “verified intelligence wherein a coordinated team… moved swiftly to the identified location,” Hawks said in a statement on Wednesday morning.
Hawks spokesperson Avele Fumba stated the accused tried to escape inside a car while shooting as the police drew closer to the residence, BBC reported.
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“The officers responded with tactical precision, leading to a high-intensity shootout in which three unidentified suspects were fatally wounded,” Fumba stated.
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“The officers responded with tactical precision, leading to a high-intensity shootout in which three unidentified suspects were fatally wounded,” Fumba stated.
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Sullivan was “immediately assessed by medical personnel” after being found "unharmed” in the car. According to officials, he is in "excellent condition."
“As investigations continue, we respectfully request privacy for the victim and his family as they navigate this period of recovery,” the statement added.
Shweta Kukreti has over 8 years of experience in covering Indian and world politics. She joined the Hindustan Times in 2024 and is primarily assigned to the US desk. She currently works as Deputy Chief Content Producer and reports on a wide range of topics, including US politics, immigration issues (especially H-1B visa) and major global events. Shweta strongly emphasizes team operations, which encompasses monitoring news, delegating tasks, editing, developing comprehensive coverage strategies, and crafting engaging, and data-informed narratives. She received the Digi Star Award at the Hindustan Times within a year of joining for her broad coverage of US politics. In 2025, she earned both a promotion and a redesignation, a significant achievement recognising her contributions and the strong value she brings to the team. She has previously worked with the Indian Express, HTDS, ANI and Republic World. Seniors in all the media organisations recognised her work. Regarding education, she earned a BA (Hons.) in Political Science and a master's degree from Delhi University, and she pursued a PG Diploma in English Journalism from the Indian Institution of Mass Communication (IIMC). She also holds a diploma in Women's Empowerment and Development from IGNOU University and a French certification course from Alliance Française de Delhi. If not working, you can find her exploring the hills and engaging in adventurous activities in Rishikesh and Himachal Pradesh. She loves to play badminton, volleyball, and chess, and spend time with her friends and family. She also enjoys spiritual activities.
Stay updated with US News covering politics, crime, weather, local events, and sports highlights. Get the latest on Donald Trump and American politics along with Horoscope 2026.
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Home/World News/Us News/Kidnapped US Pastor Josh Sullivan rescued after ‘high-intensity’ shootout kills 3 abductors in South Africa
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