Naharnet

Estonian Delegation in Beirut to Inquire About Kidnapping Probe

An Estonian delegation arrived on Tuesday in Lebanon to follow up the investigations carried out by the Lebanese authorities with Wael Abbas, the top suspect in the kidnapping of seven Estonians, al-Joumhouria newspaper reported.

The daily said on Wednesday that the delegation has previously investigated the kidnapping of the seven Estonian tourists who were abducted for 113 days in March.

However, An Nahar newspaper said in comments published that the delegation will arrive in Lebanon on Wednesday to follow up the results of the questioning of Abbas by Lebanese security and judicial services.

Last week, Syria arrested Abbas and handed him over to Lebanon.

For his part, Interior Minister Marwan Charbel told Voice of Lebanon radio (93.3) that there is no “official information” on the visit of the Estonian delegation.

The seven were freed unharmed in July. It is widely believed a ransom was paid for their release but the Estonian government has refused to confirm the reports.

Two men suspected of involvement in the kidnapping were killed in a September 20 shootout with police who have warned the gang behind the abduction could still be operating in Lebanon.


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