A powerful blast hit Arish late on Tuesday that was followed by heavy gunfire and light bombs fired by security forces, security sources said on Wednesday.

No casualties were reported as the blast took place during curfew hours.

The blast was caused by an explosive device planted on the road taken by security forces in Safa district in southern Arish.

The bomb went off immediately after security forces finished a security operation in the area.

A high state of alert was announced and all surrounding areas were combed.