'Robber' killed in 'gunfight' with Rab

An alleged robber was killed in a gunfight with Rapid Action Battalion (Rab) in Kahalpur area of Bagerhat's Mollahat upazila early yesterday.

Hossain Sikder, 45, of Joypur-Mohamadpur in Narail's Kalia upazila was the leader of a robber gang in the region. He was accused in 10 cases, including those for murder, extortion and robbery. 

Md. Enayet Hossain Mannan, commander of Rba-6, said robbery has increased recently in different areas, including Khulna -Mawa-Dhaka highway. 

To prevent robbery, the elite force set up a check post in Mollahat area and signaled six persons on two motorcycles to stop. But they tried to flee by opening fire on Rab men. In retaliation, the elite force fired 10 bullets, triggering a gunfight.

The bullet-hit body of Sikder was found on the spot while his cohorts managed to flee, said the commander.

Rab also recovered a pistol from the area.