Kidnapped US pastor rescued during dramatic shootout
A pastor from the United States of America (USA), was rescued during a dramatic shoot-out with law enforcement, days after he had been kidnapped in Motherwell in Gqeberha.
Spokesperson for the Hawks, Avele Fumba, says the operation followed verified intelligence and a coordinated team comprising the Serious Organised Crime Investigation team of the Hawks, Anti-Gang Unit, Crime Intelligence, Tactical Response Team, and other key law enforcement partners moved swiftly to the identified location.
The 45-year old Josh Sullivan was kidnapped last Thursday during a sermon and was held at a safe house in KwaMagxaki.
Fumba says when officers approached the house, they observed a vehicle on the premises with people inside.
He says as they approached, the suspects tried to flee and opened fire on police.
“The officers responded with tactical precision, leading to a high-intensity shootout.”
Three suspects were shot and killed.
Fumba says the victim was found in the same vehicle from which the suspects launched their attack and was miraculously unharmed.
According to Fumba, the victim was assessed by medical personnel and found to be in excellent condition.
The identities of the suspects are not known at this stage.
Fumba says anybody with credible information is urged to contact the police.
He says that as the investigation continues, they respectfully request privacy for the victim and his family.
Sullivan, who is from the US state of Tennessee, made international headlines following his kidnapping.
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