File photo: CGTN

BEIRUT, Feb. 21 (Xinhua) -- Lebanon's state security on Friday arrested 27 Syrians for illegally entering the country, the National News Agency reported.

The Syrians, who were arrested in Aabrine in the north of Lebanon, were referred to judicial bodies for investigations and legal procedures.

The Lebanese security forces have been trying to crack down on smuggling in areas close to the border with Syria.

Also, Lebanon's Higher Defense Council has instructed the country's General Security to send away Syrian refugees who entered Lebanon in an illegal way.