**American Pastor Successfully Rescued After Kidnapping in South Africa**

In a remarkable turn of events, Josh Sullivan, a U.S. pastor, was freed from captivity on Tuesday following a fierce firefight between law enforcement and his kidnappers, resulting in the deaths of three suspects. Sullivan was taken hostage last week while preaching at the Fellowship Baptist Church in Motherwell, a township situated in the Eastern Cape Province.

According to South African police, Sullivan was abducted on Thursday by four armed men and subsequently transported to a safe house in Gqeberha, previously known as Port Elizabeth. Lt. Col. Avele Fumba, a spokesperson for the police, reported that after gathering critical intelligence, officers located the safe house and monitored a vehicle outside with several men inside.

“When the police closed in on them, the suspects panicked, opening fire,” Fumba recounted, describing the chaotic scene that followed. A high-stakes gun battle ensued, leading to the fatalities of the three unidentified suspects, while Sullivan was found inside the vehicle unharmed.

Authorities have praised the operation, noting that Sullivan was in excellent condition and has since been reunited with his family. This incident highlights the dangers faced by international visitors in regions affected by criminal activities, but also showcases the response capabilities of local law enforcement.