At least eight Egyptian security personnel have been killed after militants stormed a checkpoint in north Sinai.
"Terrorist elements targeted a checkpoint west of El Arish early this morning. The exchange of fire killed five terrorists and eight policemen were martyred," a ministry statement said.
Some militants have escaped and security forces are following "their movements".
The three wounded police officers have been transferred to El-Arish public hospital.
There are fears the death toll could rise following reports of attacks on multiple checkpoints.
Tennessee death row inmate Christa Pike survives lethal execution attempt
Injuries and arrests as French high school student protests spread
Russia hits power plants, kills four, leaves Kyiv under smoke
US forces exit remaining bases in Iraq
Shark stranded in South Korean canal draws 600,000 visitors as rescue bid fails
