JERUSALEM — Israeli soldiers shot and killed a man attempting to infiltrate into Israel from Egypt.

The soldiers early Tuesday morning saw a group of about 15 infiltrators into Israel, who failed to stop when asked to by the Israeli troops. The infiltrators fired on the Israeli soldiers, who returned fire, striking one of the infiltrators, who then died in the field, the Israel Defense Forces spokesman said in a statement.

It is unclear if the group were terrorists or smugglers, according to reports.

The IDF has increased its activity along Israel’s western border in light of increased infiltration attempts into Israel, according to the IDF statement.

This incident occurred in the same area where a bag containing a large explosive device was discovered a week ago. On Monday, Israeli troops thwarted an attempt to place a large explosive on the border between Israel and Egypt, likely meant to blow up an Israeli army patrol.

“Smuggling and infiltration into Israel from its western border is used by terror organizations to execute terror attacks against Israeli civilians and IDF soldiers. The IDF will continue to operate against anyone that poses a threat to the security of the State of Israel and its residents,” the statement said.