Kidnapped: US missionary pastor Josh Sullivan is still missing.
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Authorities in the Eastern Cape continue to investigate the suspected kidnapping of Josh Sullivan, a 34-year-old American missionary who vanished after an armed incident in Motherwell, Gqeberha, last week.
Sullivan, originally from Tennessee, is believed to have been taken by a group of armed men during a church service in the township.
His disappearance was confirmed by the Fellowship Baptist Church in Maryville, Tennessee, which shared the news on social media, urging followers to pray for his safety.
Eastern Cape Hawks spokesperson Lieutenant General Avele Fumba stated that a man presumed to be a local pastor was abducted under suspicious circumstances.
A dedicated investigation team is working on the case, following various leads to ensure the victim’s safe return."Our focus right now is securing the individual’s safety," Fumba said. "A multidisciplinary team is actively pursuing all available avenues.
The investigation is delicate, and we ask for the public’s cooperation and understanding during this time."When asked about the possibility of a ransom demand, Fumba declined to comment, citing the sensitive nature of the ongoing inquiry.
He reiterated that the public should refrain from speculation and instead report any useful information that might assist law enforcement.
Sullivan’s family has expressed deep distress over the incident.
His mother, Tonya Rinker, voiced her anguish in a statement shared online, noting that her son’s van was later found abandoned. "Please keep Josh, his wife Meagan, and their children in your thoughts.
He is committed to his mission, and we trust he would not waver from his calling," she said. Sullivan and his wife first arrived in South Africa in 2015 as part of a church internship.
Following that, he spent two years learning isiXhosa to better serve the local community. His language skills and cultural engagement led to the establishment of a church in Motherwell, where the couple have since been ministering.
Rinker highlighted her son’s unwavering dedication to the people of Motherwell. “Josh didn’t just preach — he built meaningful relationships rooted in faith and compassion,” she said.
Authorities continue to appeal to anyone with relevant information to step forward, while the local and international community rally for Sullivan’s safe return.
