EGYPTIAN security officials said Islamic militants attacked a checkpoint in the restive northern part of the Sinai Peninsula, killing at least 10 policemen.

The officials said the attack took place as Muslims in the city of al-Arish were holding prayers marking the holiday of Eid al-Fitr, which follows the month of Ramadan, yesterday morning.

They said two officers and eight conscripts were killed. No group immediately claimed responsibility for the attack.

The officials said the militants attacked the checkpoint and seized an armored vehicle to make their getaway but a warplane chased them in the desert, killing at least five.

The officials spoke on condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to talk to reporters.

Egypt has for years battled an Islamic State affiliate based in northern Sinai. (SD-Agencies)