Security forces in North Sinai have arrested 12 people, including one American, who are suspected of being involved in an explosion that took place near al-Sheikh Zuwaid police station on Tuesday. 

A vehicle exploded near the police station during a shooting between security forces and assailants late on Tuesday.

A security source told the state news agency that the arrested suspects included one American who carried a map of key locations in the area. 

Another source told Aswat Masriya that the arrested American, 55, is a former U.S. soldier. 

The necessary legal procedures are currently begin taken with the suspects and a prosecutor has begun investigations with them.