A terrorist was killed Friday during an exchange of fire with security forces as they attempted to arrest him after discovering his hideout in the city of Belqas in Egypt’s Nile Delta. A security source said the suspect, who is wanted on several terror-linked charges, was plotting terrorist operations against the police and the armed forces. The source added that the terrorist opened fire on the security forces when he noticed he was under surveillance, resulting in a shootout that left him dead. Minister of Interior Mahmoud Tawfiq said on Friday the sacrifices made by the police and their heroic acts have been the main reason for maintaining security and stability in the country. The minister made the remarks during his meeting with leaders and members of the Central Security Forces. Tawfiq hailed as professional the training provided to the forces, wishing them more success. The minister honored personnel from the Field 2 Central Security Forces and units which serve in North Sinai, praising their performance, which he said reflects their full understanding of the seriousness of the tasks assigned to them, and full readiness in combat capabilities to deal with emergency situations. Earlier this week, the security forces foiled an attack on Field 2, killing four Takfiris and wounding two others. Police found with them a camera, hand grenades, rocket-propelled grenades, weapons and explosive belts. Egyptian troops, backed by police, have since February been conducting a major operation in Sinai targeting militants behind a wave of attacks against security forces and civilians. Minister of Defence Lieutenant General Mohamed Zaki has affirmed that defending Egypt’s national security is a sacred duty and a noble mission.