Security forces have thwarted an attempt to smuggle a large number of weapons into the Mediterranean resort of Marsa Matrouh.
The harbors department arrested a Libyan national who allegedly tried to smuggle two submachine guns, eight machine guns, and ammunition.
During investigations by prosecutors, the suspect denied knowing about the weapons hidden in a vehicle that he said he got from another Libyan national who is disabled in Salloum.
Salloum border security officers received a tip about the attempt and after inspecting the vehicle, which came from Libya through the Salloum exit, they found the weapons and ammunition.
Public prosecutors were notified to start investigations, and a team was formed to inspect the vehicle and seize the items.
This is the fourth weapons seizure in that area in less than a month. Two days ago, security seized five anti-aircraft guns, three machine guns, 173 rounds of ammunition and two Lee-Enfield rifles in a bid to encourage people to turn in unregistered weapons.
The Interior Ministry said police had previously discovered 40 ground-to-ground missiles and 17 rocket-propelled grenades, in addition to other weapons.
Media outlets have reported that weapons smuggling across the Egypt-Libya border has increased since the overthrow and killing of Libyan leader Muammar Qadhafi last year.
Edited translation from Al-Masry Al-Youm
