Policeman killed and civilian injured in Arish explosion

CAIRO – 20 April 2017: An explosive device killed a policeman and injured a civilian in Al-Arish while an armored vehicle was passing Thursday morning, security sources said.

Security sources stated that the explosion took place in Al-Arish coastal area while an armored vehicle was passing, leading to the killing of a policeman, Ali Ahmed Abdel Hameed, 20 years; and injured a civilian, Mahmoud Ibrahim Al-Sayed, 47, with different injuries all over his body.

The source added that the body of the policeman was transferred to Al-Arish Hospital, and the security forces closed the surrounding area and is currently searching for the doer.

On Wednesday a group of militants attacked and opened fire at a police checkpoint in Saint Catherine where the police exchanged fire in return which resulted in the killing of one policeman and injuring four others. The Islamic State (IS) terrorist group claimed responsibility for the attack. Security forces in South Sinai killed terrorist involved in the attack by tracking their hiding place.

Last week, two churches in Tanta and Alexandria were bombed on Palm Sunday leading to the killing of at least 45 people, for which IS also claimed responsibility. State of emergency was declared following the incidents.

Additional reporting by Ahmed Hussein