CAIRO - 22 June 2026: Egyptian law enforcement forces, in coordination with the Ministry of Interior, launched a massive security crackdown targeting criminal hotspots within the Southern Military Region, the Armed Forces announced in a Monday statement.
The operation targeted networks involved in illicit activities—including weapons and drug trafficking, illegal gold mining, and undocumented migration—which officials stated directly threaten national security, economic stability, and sustainable development efforts.
The raids resulted in the arrest of 87 Egyptian nationals and 136 foreign nationals involved in these illicit operations.
Security forces seized 14 vehicles, wireless communication devices, and substantial sums of money in both Egyptian pounds and foreign currencies. Additionally, undocumented weapons, ammunition, and heavy equipment used for unregulated mining operations were confiscated.
A number of undocumented migrants without legal residency papers were also detained during the sweep. The military confirmed that all suspects and confiscated items have been referred to competent judicial authorities for legal proceedings in accordance with international conventions and humanitarian law standards.
Coinciding with the start of the campaign, a separate group of undocumented migrants surrendered themselves to Egyptian security checkpoints along the border. Authorities deported them to their home countries while ensuring all baseline humanitarian needs were met.
The military statement emphasized that the Egyptian state retains all available options to counter national security threats, emphasizing its full capability to protect its territory and resources under any circumstances.
Law enforcement forces are continuing intensive field operations to secure state borders and dismantle remaining criminal cells.
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