ISLAMABAD: The United States has condemned the killing of three Baloch leaders in Balochistan, saying one of them had helped in the release of a kidnapped American U.N. official John Solecki.

"We condemn the recent killings of three Baloch leaders," the U.S. embassy in Islamabad said in a statement.

"One of the individuals played an active role in efforts towards the release of an American citizen and UNHCR official John Solecki."

The U.S. embassy said the role by one of the three leaders killed, Ghulam Mohammed Baloch, in efforts to secure Solecki's released had been greatly appreciated.

"We call on Pakistani authorities to thoroughly investigate these three deaths and to bring those responsible to justice," the embassy said.

http://www.geo.tv/4-10-2009/39529.htm