Iran, the Arab Spring and chaos

Egypt seizes arms convoy headed to Sinai

Cairo security forces intercept three trucks carrying surface-to-surface missiles, surveillance equipment and munitions; Egyptian media say shipment sponsored by 'foreign intelligence agencies'
Roi Kais

Egyptian security forces were able to intercept a convoy of three trucks carrying illegal weapons en route to the Sinai Peninsula, Ynet learned Thursday.

According to Egyptian media, the arms shipment, which included surface-to-surface and anti-tank missiles, as well as RPG rockets, originated from Libya and was bound for the area between El-Arish and Rafah.

An Egyptian security source added that the trucks were stopped as part of a routine, random security check on vehicles travelling their route.

A report in Al-Ahram, Egyptian security forces were able to seize over 40 surface-to-surface missiles, 17 RPG rockers, and 120mm mortar shell launch-pad, seven assault rifles, surveillance equipment and over 10,000 rounds.

An Al-Sharq Al-Awsat report added that "These were quality weapons – not the kind you use to deal with regular police forces. This is indicative of perpetration for confrontation with the Egyptian Army."

According to the newspaper's sources, the shipment was "not sponsored by private individuals, but rather by international intelligence agencies trying to undermine Egypt's internal security."

Egyptian sources said that the drivers admitted being aware of the nature of their cargo.