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

The officials say 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, on Wednesday morning.

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

The officials say the militants attacked the checkpoint, 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.