Egyptian authorities in North Sinai have launched a far-reaching sweeping operation near Arish to apprehend the kidnappers of seven security officials. The campaign, led by assistant director of North Sinai security Major General Ali Azzazi, aims to free three police and four security officers kidnapped by unknown assailants on Thursday. Ten police cars, an armoured vehicle and dozens of security forces officials will check cars and motorists’ identity papers passing along the international highway in Arish.