DHAKA: A bomb has exploded near the entrance of a security forces camp in the northern Egyptian city of Ismailiyah, killing at least one policeman and injuring at least 18 other people, including six civilians, security sources have told Al Jazeera.

The bomb was planted on the gates of the camp and detonated remotely, the sources said.

A large amount of explosive material was used, causing a very intense explosion, Al Jazeera`s correspondent in Cairo reported on Thursday night.

The bombing was followed by gunshots, officials said, adding that several ambulances were rushed to the site of the attack.

Police and military officials earlier said that at least 54 people had been injured in the blast, but later revised that toll downwards.

Ismailiyah and surrounding areas on the Sinai Peninsula have seen regular attacks on police and military personnel, especially since the military toppled elected President Mohamed Morsi on July 3.

The military has been conducting an extensive operation in Sinai, east of the Suez Canal, to crack down on armed groups.

Source: aljazeera.com
BDST: 0822 HRS, DEC 13, 2013
MR/RS