Kidnappers of Fox News' Centanni, Wiig Claim Responsibility

An unknown group, calling itself the Holy Jihad Brigades, has surfaced to claim responsibility for the kidnappings of Fox News reporter Steve Centanni and cameraman Olaf Wiig.  (HT: Drudge)

A video released by the group and broadcast on Al Jazeera demanded the release of US-held Muslim prisoners in the next 72 hours as a condition of their release.

The video, which broadcast by Al-Jazeera and also seen by an Associated Press correspondent, was the first sign of American correspondent Steve Centanni, 60, of the San Francisco area, and cameraman Olaf Wiig, 36, of New Zealand, since they were kidnapped Aug. 14 near the Palestinian security services headquarters in Gaza City.

Although Palestinian militant groups have often seized foreigners, including members of the media, this is the longest any have been held.

In the video, the men sat on the floor in sweatsuits and appeared to be in good health. No armed men were seen.

As Allahpundit notes, there are more curiosities here than the complete obscurity of the group in question.

Also, it took them nine days to demand that the U.S. release all “Muslim prisoners”?

We have 72 hours to do that, by the way. If we don’t, they’re vowing to — make us wait some more.

I don’t know. The name itself rings false somehow, possibly because it evokes the names of two other Pali terror groups: Islamic Jihad and the Al-Aqsa Martyrs Brigade.

Mary Katherine transcribed Fox News reporter Jennifer Griffin's reading of a transcript of the video.

Centanni: "We've been captured in Gaza and been held prisoner here and we are in good condition and live as well and in good health. We have water and food and everyday access to the bathroom, shower.

We have clean clothes. Our captors are treating us well and so just letting you know that I'm here and I'm alive and I give my love to my family and friends and ask you to do anything you can to help us get out of here."

Wiig: I guess I will add for myself that I know my family. If you can find local pressure or local government here in Gaza and the West Bank to help us, I would appreciate it. To my family, please don't worry. I am okay.

Centanni: We love you all and hope to see you soon.

Update: Hot Air has posted the video.

Previously:
Fox News Journalists Still Missing
Fox News Journalists Kidnapped in Gaza

Elsewhere:  Sister Toldjah, Hot Air, The Political Pitbull, Wizbang, Mary Katherine Ham, Ace of Spades, Michelle Malkin