'Robber' killed in Kushtia 'gunfight'

A suspected robber was killed in a “gunfight” with detectives in Mirpur upazila of Kushtia early today.

The deceased was identified as Rafiqul Islam alias Rafiq, 38, son of Ali Sheikh from Pangsha upazila of Rajbari, reports our Kushtia correspondent quoting police.

Tipped off that a gang of robbers were taking preparation to commit robbery on Kushtia-Meherpur highway at Kalibari, a team of detective police conducted a drive in the area around 3:30am, said Sabbirul Alam, officer-in-charge of Detective Branch in Kushtia.

Sensing presence of the law enforcers, the gang opened fire on the cops, prompting police to fire back, triggering a gunfight, police said.

After the “gunfight”, police found the body lying on the ground while the others managed to flee the scene, police said.

The law enforcers recovered an LG gun, bullets and some sharp weapons including an axe from the spot.

At least six cases of robbery and snatching were filed against Rafik with Pangsha and Khoksa police station, police said.