Cairo security forces intercept three trucks carrying surface-to- surface missiles, surveillance equipment and munitions; Egyptian media say shipment sponsored by ´foreign intelligence agencies´

Egyptian security forces were able to intercept a convoy of three trucks carrying illegal weapons en route to the Sinai Peninsula, Ynet learned Thursday.

According to Egyptian media, the arms shipment, which included surface-to-surface and anti-tank missiles, as well as RPG rockets, originated from Libya and was bound for the area between El-Arish and Rafah.

An Egyptian security source added that the trucks were stopped as part of a routine, random security check on vehicles travelling their route.

A report in Al-Ahram, Egyptian security forces were able to seize over 40 surface-to-surface missiles, 17 RPG rockers, and 120mm mortar shell launch-pad, seven assault rifles, surveillance equipment and over 10,000 rounds.

An Al-Sharq Al-Awsat report added that "These were quality weapons – not the kind you use to deal with regular police forces. This is indicative of perpetration for confrontation with the Egyptian Army."

According to the newspaper´s sources, the shipment was "not sponsored by private individuals, but rather by international intelligence agencies trying to undermine Egypt´s internal security."

Egyptian sources said that the drivers admitted being aware of the nature of their cargo. (Copyright 2012 © Yedioth Internet 05/10/12)