Al-Arish (Egypt), Oct 17

Egyptian security forces on Thursday killed six suspected militants who were allegedly planning to attack a checkpoint near Al-Arish Airport in lawless North Sinai, eyewitnesses were quoted as telling state news agency Mena.

Two local residents were injured in cross-fire between security forces and the suspected militants and were taken to Al-Arish general Hospital, Egyptian daily Al-Ahram said citing Mena. 

The suspects were allegedly getting ready for the attack when they caught the attention of security forces who opened fire at them.

The army has launched a major counter-insurgency offensive in volatile North Sinai where militants have stepped up their attacks against security forces since Islamist president Mohamed Morsi was deposed by the military July 3 following mass protests against his rule.

By:IANS