Leading Islamic State group militant killed in Egypt, says jihadist news outlet

The Islamic State's media wing have reported the death of a militant named as Abu Hamza al-Maqdisi in the restive Sinai Peninsula.

MENA

1 min read

The New Arab & agencies

03 October, 2018

Egypt has faced increased unrest in the Sinai Peninsula since 2012 [AFP]

A leading Islamic State group militant has been killed in Egypt's Sinai Peninsula, a report from the group's media wing has said.

The death of Abu Hamza al-Maqdisi, who was described as a "martyr" by the group, was confirmed late on Monday by the IS-affiliated Aamaq news agency.

The report was accompanied by a photo of a young, smiling, man, however no details were given on how he died.

Militants launched an insurgency in Egypt after the 2013 ouster of former President Mohamed Morsi, forced out by the military in the face of mass protests against his rule.

Attacks have largely been concentrated in the Sinai Peninsula but militants have also struck elsewhere across the country.

The military says around 300 suspected jihadis and at least 35 soldiers have been killed in the "Sinai 2018" operation was launched in February.

Egypt's military has been accused of gross human rights violations in the Sinai, including the killing and torture of civilians.