PASTOR RESCUED

Josh Sullivan, an American pastor, kidnapped by gun-wielding robbers during a church service in Motherwell in the Eastern Cape last week, has been rescued. 

According to reports three suspects were killed in a shootout with law enforcement on Tuesday night in a daring operation.

Last week, Sullivan was abducted by gunman while he was preeking at Fellowship Baptist Church in Motherwell. 

He was taken his Toyota Fortuner and robbed of three cellphones.

The vehicle was recovered in Motherwell by investigators and by Monday it was confirmed that the kidnappers had demanded a ransom of an undisclosed amount. 

But Directorate for Priority Crimes Investigation (known as Hawks) and SAPS tracked the suspects down to a house in the township of KwaMagxaki, just north of Gqeberha.

Hawks spokesperson Lieutenant-Colonel Avele Fumba said the intelligence-driven operation was conducted on Tuesday. 

He explains: “As officers approached the house, they observed a vehicle on the premises. The suspects inside the vehicle upon seeing law enforcement allegedly attempted to flee and opened fire on the team.

Fumba said officers retaliated and three suspects were killed.

The victim was found inside the vehicle from which the suspects had launched their attack.

Miraculously unharmed, Sullivan was immediately assessed by medical personnel and is currently in an excellent condition.

In a statement, Fumba adds: “This operation demonstrates the critical importance of inter-agency collaboration and timely intelligence in tackling serious organised crime. 

“The Hawks commend the bravery and professionalism of all officers and support personnel involved in securing the victim’s safe return.

“We extend sincere appreciation to all role players that includes our law enforcement members, the public, international partners, both local and international media whose support and vigilance were instrumental in this success.

“As investigations continue, we respectfully request privacy for the victim and his family as they navigate this period of recovery.”

The Provincial Head of the Hawks in the Eastern Cape, Major General Mboiki Obed Ngwenya, commended the operational team for their courage, discipline and tactical excellence under fire. 

“He also thanked senior government officials for their visible and personal support during this critical period, reaffirming that such united efforts send a strong message to those who threaten the safety and sovereignty of our nation.