At least four security forces members were killed and seven others were missing after a Taliban attack in northern Balkh province on Saturday night, said Adil Shah Adil, a spokesman for provincial police chief.

On Saturday night in Alam Khil village of Balkh district the Taliban attacked a security checkpoint and clashes continued for several hours, Adil said.

The checkpoint fell into Taliban hands but was re-captured after the arrival of reinforcements, he said.

The Taliban have also sustained casualties, he said, but an exact number was not available.

The Taliban have not yet commented on the attack.