CAIRO, Aug 17 (Aswat Masriya) - Egyptian Defence Minister Sedki Sobhi said on Wednesday that Egypt has a zero tolerance policy to “forces of evil and corruption” and anyone who attempts to seize Egypt's land and sovereignty. 

The statements came during a visit by the defense minister and interior minister Magdy Abdel-Ghaffar to North Sinai, as they inspected the security situation in the governorate, which was the site of a large number of terrorist attacks throughout the past three years.

The army chief praised the achievements of the army and the police forces in eradicating extremism from Sinai, saying it reflects their ability to protect Egypt’s national security, according to a statement by Egypt’s defense ministry.

Sobhi also referred to the armed forces support for Sinai residents, who stand side-by-side with the security forces aiming at restoring security and creating suitable climate for development in the upcoming period.

Abdel-Ghaafar said that the army and the police continue to exert efforts and sacrifices to combat terrorism, protect the country’s home front and address the various challenges that face the Egyptian state, proving that the country is moving towards restoring security and safety.

Egypt’s President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi said in April, ahead of planned protests against the decision to transfer the sovereignty over two Red Sea islands to Saudi Arabia, that "evil forces" were conspiring against Egypt, stressing that they are attempting to destabilise the country.

Militancy inside Egypt has seen a significant rise since the military ouster of President Mohamed Mursi in July 2013, following mass protests against his rule.

According to separate statements by the armed forces, Egyptian security forces have killed hundreds of militants in Sinai over the past two years.