Monday, 25 May 2026
Major drug and weapons gang dismantled in Aswan
Egyptian authorities have dismantled a highly dangerous criminal gang in Aswan, southern Egypt, following a coordinated operation by the Anti-Narcotics and Unlicensed Weapons Department and other security agencies.
The gang, which included six members with previous convictions for serious crimes such as murder, drug trafficking, armed robbery, and possession of illegal weapons, was reportedly involved in the trafficking of narcotics and unlicensed firearms, according to a statement by the Interior Ministry.
During a raid, security forces were met with armed resistance, resulting in a shootout. Five gang members were killed, one was arrested, and a police officer from the Central Security Forces was injured.
Police seized 47 kilograms of various illegal drugs, including methamphetamine (“shabu”), hashish, and heroin. Additionally, authorities confiscated 10 firearms (including two machine guns, five automatic rifles, and two shotguns) and a large quantity of ammunition. The estimated value of the seized drugs is around 20 million Egyptian pounds (approximately $415,000 USD).
Legal procedures are underway following the operation.