The IDF thwarted an attempt to infiltrate Israel from Egypt on Thursday night. One Beduin was killed and three others were injured in the exchange of fire.

The IDF observed a group of suspects trying to enter Israel and ordered them to stop. When the group refused to do so, the IDF opened fire in their direction, in line with standard procedure. Egyptian forces also opened fire on the group of suspects, who fired back at both the IDF and the Egyptian forces.

The IDF has been on high alert along the border amid intelligence that Gaza-based terrorist groups are plotting an attack along the border similar to the one in August which killed eight Israelis.

The IDF was investigating the incident but sources said that it was likely a group of smugglers. Three of the injured were captured by IDF troops and were evacuated by helicopter to Soroka Hospital in Beersheba.

Last month terrorists tried to smuggle two large bombs into Israel from Sinai. Both attempts were thwarted by the army. (© 1995-2011, The Jerusalem Post 03/16/12)