Interior Minister Magdy Abdel Ghaffar honored on Friday the Cairo security chief directorate and police in Helwan for thwarting an attack on a church in the southern Cairo district.

Abdel Ghaffar hailed the police's bravery in protecting people during the celebrations of Christmas and the New Year.

He offered condolences to the families of people who were injured in the attack. He wished speedy recovery for the injured.

The minister stressed that police are able to face the current challenges, warning of schemes planned by evil powers and terrorism to undermine Egypt’s unity and stability.

Earlier today, a terrorist opened fire at a shop and attempted to storm Mar Mina church in Helwan but he was intercepted by the police. He was holding a machine gun and an explosive charge.

Several people were killed and wounded in the two attacks.

MENA