Egypt: Security forces raid militant hideout in Cairo April 14

Event

A firefight erupted in Cairo's Al-Amiriyyah neighborhood on Tuesday, April 14, after security forces raided a suspected militant hideout. According to local media sources, the militants were "neutralized" in the operation, while one security officer was killed and another was wounded. The militants were reportedly plotting an attack on the country's Coptic Christians. Security forces have cordoned off the area for an associated investigation and have advised residents to remain indoors. 

A heightened security presence is to be expected in the affected area over the coming hours. Similar security operations are possible in Cairo over the near term.

Context

Egyptian security forces are in the middle of a counterterrorism operation named "Sinai 2018" that aims to neutralize militant and terrorist groups operating in the Sinai Peninsula, Nile Delta, and the Western Desert. Egypt frequently conducts raids on suspected militant groups following terrorist attacks. The raids' targets are not typically confirmed by independent reporting and foreign tourists have previously been killed in similar operations.

Advice

Individuals in Egypt are advised to monitor the situation, adhere to instructions issued by local authorities and their home governments, report suspicious behavior and objects to the authorities, and remain vigilant when visiting areas vulnerable to terrorist attacks (e.g. tourist sites, churches, international and government buildings, public transportation hubs, etc.).