20120527
AP
NAIROBI, Kenya (AP) — Voice of America says it is investigating reports that a correspondent in Ethiopia's capital has been detained by authorities.

The U.S.-funded broadcast service said Friday that Peter Heinlein was believed to have been detained but did not say why.

It says the correspondent's safety and welfare are its utmost concern.

The VOA also urged Ethiopia's government to let Heinlein carry out his duties "without interference."

Ethiopia's information minister did not answer a call seeking comment late Friday. Ethiopia, a U.S. ally, closely monitors the journalists on its soil.