2 new smuggling tunnels leading to Gaza Strip found

Egyptian authorities found two new tunnels leading under the border to the Gaza Strip and arrested several suspects.

Photo: 2 new smuggling tunnels leading to Gaza Strip found

The first, 1,100 meter-long tunnel (1203 yards) was discovered in Salah el-Din north of the Rafah border crossing, said the security official on condition of anonymity because he was not authorized to give press statements.

Inside, authorities found a weapons cache with bullets and explosives, five kilograms of heroine, and some medicine, the official said.

Several suspects were detained and an investigation is underway, he said.

Later Monday, a second tunnel was found south of Rafah border crossing at Al-Dohnia. Authorities arrested three Palestinians who were on their way from Gaza to Egypt, the official said.

Palestinians frequently smuggle weapons and contraband into the Gaza Strip through tunnels, prompting Israel to complain that Egypt does not do enough to stop the smuggling.

Egypt has rejected the allegations but recently said it would make a greater effort to crack down on trafficking.