Officials say British forces have detained two Britons in Afghanistan, amid media reports the two were suspected of fighting for the Taliban.

In London, Britain's foreign office Thursday confirmed the detention of the two British nationals and said embassy staff was providing assistance. No other details were given.

The Times of London newspaper reported that the suspects were arrested in the southern Afghan province of Helmand late Tuesday during an operation by British forces in response to a “suspected threat” to British security.

Britain has about 9,500 troops in Afghanistan as part of the NATO-led force.