Overview

• An American missionary was kidnapped at gunpoint during a church service in Gqeberha, South Africa, on April 10, 2025.
• The South African Police Service’s elite Hawks unit conducted a rescue operation on April 16, resulting in a high-intensity shootout.
• Three unidentified suspects were fatally wounded during the operation as they attempted to flee and opened fire on law enforcement officers.
• The missionary was found unharmed inside the suspects' vehicle and is reported to be in excellent condition after medical assessment.
• Authorities have not yet disclosed the identity of the rescued individual, and the investigation into the abduction is ongoing.