Three Missionaries Freed By Haitian Kidnappers, US Continues Efforts To Free Another Hostage.

Illustration of Christian Aid Ministries humanitarian activities. (Source: christianaidministries.org)

JAKARTA - Three missionaries kidnapped in Haiti in October were again released, the US State Department and the Ohio-based missionary group that organized the group's trip to the Caribbean nation said Monday.

"We thank God that three more hostages were released last night. Those freed are safe and appear to be doing well," Ohio-based Christian Aid Ministries said in a statement.

Meanwhile, U.S. State Department spokesman Ned Price on Monday confirmed the release, adding the United States was continuing to work to secure the release of another hostage.

Separately, Haiti National Police spokesman Garry Desrosiers said the three were released on Sunday evening. However, he declined to provide additional details, citing the safety of the remaining hostages.

Sixteen Americans and one Canadian, including five children, were kidnapped after visiting an orphanage. The incident has highlighted Haiti's dire kidnapping problem, which has worsened in recent months amid economic troubles and political upheaval.

Last month, two of the 17 American and Canadian Christian missionaries held hostage in Haiti were released. There were no further details on this, with Haitian security authorities confirming the news of the release.

"We are aware that two hostages in Haiti have been released," Ohio-based Christian Aid Ministries said in a statement.

To note, officials previously said a gang known as the 400 Mawozo demanded a ransom of $1 million per person held hostage. A man who identified himself as a gang leader said in a video posted on YouTube that he had no qualms about killing hostages if he didn't get what he wanted.