Security forces in North Sinai have begun deploying around churches to protect them, in light of the recent attacks in Mansura and Al-Azhar University.
The source said that the North Sinai Security Directorate had put forth a plan to secure churches after receiving information of possible targets against them.
The criminal investigation department, security forces and armored security patrols are to participate in inspecting buildings in the vicinity of the churches.
South Sinai Security Director, Mahmoud al-Hefnawy said that they are ready to protect tourist sites, churches and houses of worships in the governorate.
Hefnawy added that they are working under the security framework set by the Minister of Interior to secure the upcoming constitutional referendum.
He also pointed out that a state of emergency was announced in Sinai to secure the New Year and Christmas celebrations, especially in Nuweiba, Dahab, Sharm el-Sheikh and Saint Catherine.
South Sinai Governor Khaled Fouda stated, “The occupancy rate of hotels and tourist villages is increasing, and we are working on raising this rate through holding arts festivals.”
