Are Kidnappings On The Rise in Lebanon?

The Daily Star reports that in the past few weeks, no less than three people have been kidnapped in Lebanon.

All three were reportedly business men kidnapped for ransom.

A car belonging to 65-year-old land and business owner, Najib Youssef was found abandoned in North Lebanon on February 5. He is currently being held in exchange for a 3 million dollar ransom.

55-year-old Merchant Ahmad Diab Abu Hasan was captured on February 4 in East Lebanon, and 46-year-old auto parts shop owner Fadi Mitri, was taken last Friday in Mansourieh, on February 1.

It is uncommon to see a string of kidnappings so close together, but police have yet to confirm whether or not they are linked.

Mitri’s family has since paid the $75,000 ransom, and he has been released.