Two suicide bombers killed 10 people and wounded 30 at an office of the prisons directorate in the north of the city, a senior official told the BBC.
 

Gunmen also opened fire at the justice ministry. Two gunmen were shot dead, but one is still inside the building.

Afghan troops have surrounded the building. The Taleban say they carried out the attacks.

They say they are in response to the treatment of Taleban prisoners in Afghan jails.
 

Witnesses flee
 

The attacker still in the justice ministry building is believed to be wearing a suicide belt and holding three hostages, including a senior ministry official.

The BBC has spoken to the minister of justice who says he is safe and locked in his room under armed guard, but that he is unable to leave the building.

Hundreds of people are reported to be fleeing the scene of the attack.

The incident comes after US military chief Adm Mike Mullen said more American troops were needed urgently in Afghanistan.

US President Barack Obama is expected to announce soon how many extra US troops could be sent to Afghanistan, and has called for Nato reinforcements.