The kidnapping of a Tennessee pastor working in South Africa occurred amid a rising trend of kidnappings in the country over the past decade, mainly driven by armed robberies. Josh Sullivan, a 34-year-old pastor and missionary, was abducted by armed, masked men from his church in the Eastern Cape Province in April. The Institute for Security Studies (ISS) Africa reported a 264% increase in kidnappings in South Africa from 2014/15 to 2023/24, with most incidents occurring during aggravated robberies.
The suspects who kidnapped Sullivan demanded a ransom, according to Eastern Cape Hawks spokesperson Warrant Officer Ndiphiwe Mhlakhuvana. Law enforcement agencies in South Africa, including the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation, known as the Hawks, have launched a task team to locate Sullivan and apprehend the perpetrators. While ransom demands are rare in South African kidnappings, less than 5% involve such requests. Tennessee Senator Marsha Blackburn has reached out to the State Department and the embassy in South Africa to assist in efforts to rescue Sullivan.
Bobby McDonald, a criminal justice lecturer at the University of New Haven, highlighted the risks faced by missionaries working in countries with high gang-related activities and crime rates. South Africa’s stark wealth disparity and prevalence of gang activity pose additional dangers to foreigners in the country. Sullivan was taken at gunpoint during a prayer meeting, and his safe return has been eagerly awaited by his family, friends, and the community.
Despite the dangers, Sullivan and his wife have devoted years to missionary work in South Africa, including planting a new church in Motherwell. They have shared stories of being robbed in the country, which they attribute to the prevalent poverty and desperation for survival. Sullivan’s mother and fellow missionaries have described him as a compassionate, dedicated individual with a deep commitment to spreading the Gospel and serving others. The Sullivans have also welcomed Xhosa children into their family, further demonstrating their commitment to the local community.
The case of Josh Sullivan illustrates the challenges and risks faced by missionaries working in high-crime areas such as South Africa. The kidnapping incident has sparked concern and prayer for Sullivan’s safe return. His family and colleagues have emphasized his positive qualities and unwavering dedication to his mission work. As efforts continue to locate Sullivan and bring him back safely, the incident raises awareness of the threats faced by individuals working to make a difference in communities affected by poverty and crime.
