Two suspects were arrested on charges of involvement in the kidnapping of Abdul Rauf, a nine-year-old child, who was abducted in the northern province of Balkh three months ago.

Balkh police chief Sayed Merajuddin Sadat said the suspects were arrested following a complaint by Abdul Rauf's father.

He did not name the suspects but said they were sent to judiciaries for further proceedings. But a police official said on condition of anonymity that the suspects named Shaghasi and Gugari were arrested previously as well but were released.

Balkh officials have said that at least 20 suspects have been arrested so far in connection with the incident.

President Ghani in mid-January warned that Balkh security officials will be removed if the child is not rescued, but he has not been released so far.