BEIRUT (AFP) – An obscure group has claimed the kidnapping of seven Estonians in Lebanon by sending an email to a local website along with copies of the ID cards of three of those abducted, the head of the website told AFP Thursday.

“We received an email late yesterday and we informed the proper authorities,” said Rabih Haber, head of Lebanon Files website. The email added that the Estonians were in good condition.

The group, Haraket El Nahda Wal Islah (the movement for renewal and reform) said it would make known its demands at a later time.

A security official contacted by AFP would not comment on the claim.

The Estonian cyclists were abducted at gunpoint in the eastern Bekaa town of Zahle after entering Lebanon through Syria.

Authorities believe a gang of Lebanese and Syrian nationals involved in smuggling and other criminal activities is behind the kidnapping.