ZARANJ, Sept 28 (Pajhwok Afghan News): Two government officials, kidnapped in the Nimroz province some 20 days back, were freed in exchange for five militants last night, officials said on Friday.

Khashrud district chief Muhammad Hashim Noorzai told Pajhwok Afghan News the National Solidarity Department employees were released at midnight as a result of hectic efforts by tribal elders.

Nimroz police head Brig. Gen. Muhammad Daud Askaryar confirmed the two officials were swapped with five Taliban insurgents. The kidnappers had earlier demanded ransom for freeing the men.

The rebels had been arrested in connection with the kidnap incident, explained Askaryar, who would not give further details of the swap deal.

National Solidarity Programme (NSP) head in Zaranj Abdul Khalil, when approached for comments, said he had spoken to the men by phone. Held captive in the Farah desert, he claimed, both were in good health.

ass/mud