Egypt’s law enforcement forces have detained 87 Egyptian citizens and 136 foreign nationals during a large-scale security operation against criminal networks in the Southern Military Region, the Egyptian Armed Forces spokesperson said in a Monday statement.
The campaign targeted criminal hotbeds utilized by illicit organizations to conduct activities including weapons and drug trafficking, illegal gold mining, and undocumented migration, according to the statement. The military stated that these activities pose a direct threat to national security and negatively impact economic stability, the investment climate, and sustainable development efforts.
Security forces confiscated 14 vehicles of various types, wireless communication devices, and sums of cash in Egyptian pounds (EGP) and foreign currencies. Unlicensed weapons and ammunition were also recovered, alongside the seizure of large quantities of machinery and equipment used for unauthorized exploratory mining of mineral resources.
The military statement added that undocumented infiltrators lacking official residency permits were detained during the sweep. All individuals and seized assets have been referred to the competent judicial authorities for legal proceedings in accordance with international treaties and international humanitarian law standards.
Coinciding with the launch of the campaign, a number of individuals who had entered Egyptian territory illegally turned themselves in at security checkpoints and positions. The statement noted that they were subsequently deported to their home countries, with all their humanitarian needs met during the process.
The operation was conducted by the armed forces in coordination with units from the Ministry of Interior. The military spokesperson stated that law enforcement forces are maintaining intensified field operations to clear criminal enclaves and pursue outlaws as part of ongoing efforts to secure state borders and establish stability.
The statement concluded by affirming that the Egyptian state retains all available options to counter threats and maintains the capacity to protect its territory and national resources under all circumstances.
