Egyptian police say a dispute between Moldovans and Bedouin traffickers demanding more money to take them to Israel has left one Bedouin dead.
Security officials say the Moldovans told police Saturday the Bedouins doubled the $1,000 amount agreed upon to smuggle them into Israel, and when they refused to pay the Bedouins took them hostage.
The officials say the Moldovans, who were seeking work in Israel, are suspected of killing a Bedouin and fleeing. Police arrested 16 Moldovans near the Israeli border.
Moldovan citizens need a visa to enter Israel.
The officials spoke on condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to speak to the media.
Many migrants seeking asylum and jobs try to enter Israel with the help of Bedouin traffickers.