National Security arrested five takfirists (those who follow an extremist Islamic ideology) accused of detonating a bomb on Friday on Gesr Suez Street, also known as Suez Bridge, in Heliopolis, according to an Interior Ministry statement released on Sunday.
The bomb blast took place on Friday near a security presence, killing one citizen and injuring another. The explosion also resulted in the damage of three vehicles, two of which are owned by citizens while the other is a police vehicle.
Using advanced technology, security forces tracked those responsible for the bomb following the explosion and were able to identify their location and arrest them.
The case was referred to National Security after all legal procedures were completed. The prosecution has already begun investigations.
When the defendants were arrested, security members found bombs and weapons in their possession.
The defendants admitted to being responsible for the bombing, and also admitted that they had been preparing other attacks that would target the armed forces and police. According to the ministry’s statement, the Ring Road was among the areas they wanted to target.
Bombings have become a frequent occurrence across Egypt since 2013, with the insurgency hitting its peak in North Sinai, followed by Greater Cairo and other governorates.
However, since late 2015, these attacks have decreased in Greater Cairo and other governorates, but they still frequently take place in North Sinai.
Attacks have also been linked to key events taking place in the country. Friday’s explosion coincided with the end of a three-day National Youth Conference held in Sharm El-Sheikh.
This also comes amid uncertain calls for protests on 11 November. The police continue to be alert ahead of the day, making arrests when possible. No known group announced participation in the protests.
