Initial reports revealed that the man who hijacked an Egyptian plane and forced it to land in Cyprus is wanted for charges of fraud and forgery.

The reports said the whole operation was political not terrorist and was meant to pressure Egypt as news released earlier said that the hijacker demanded the release of political prisoners in Egypt.

Earlier in the day, the EgyptAir Airbus A320, originally traveling from Alexandra's Borg El Arab Airport to Cairo, was hijacked and forced to land in Larnaca, Cyprus.

Seven people, namely the pilot, the co-pilot, a flight attendant, a security officer and three passengers are still inside the plane. The others were released.

Source : MENA