The militant group “Sinai Province” claimed responsibility on Sunday for an attack on an army-owned M60 tank.
The group posted pictures of the attack on Twitter accounts allegedly operated by Sinai Province members, claiming that they planted an improvised explosive device (IED) on a side road linking the neighbouring cities of Al-Arish and Sheikh Zuweid, which exploded while the tank was passing.
Neither the source of the attack and nor the number of causalities have been confirmed by official representatives, with the police and the armed forces refusing to comment or give information about the attack.
Tribal sources however said Sunday that the attack left an officer dead and four infantrymen injured, adding that they were transferred to Al-Arish hospital.
Security forces said clashes took place Saturday between the military and militants, leaving eight “extremists” killed.
In continuation of attacks on security members, an IED exploded in front of a residential building in Al-Ashreen Street that is allegedly owned by an Egyptian military officer. However, there were no causalities reported.
The army said Sunday that explosives experts identified and disarmed another two IEDs on the street. The IEDs were planted in front of a house that allegedly belongs to another Armed Forces officer.
North Sinai has been the site of a growing insurgent stronghold since the ouster of former president Mohamed Morsi in July 2013.
Military operations in North Sinai targeting militants aim “to ultimately eliminate terrorism” in the agitated peninsula, where militants launch frequent attacks against security personnel and facilities.
