An alleged drug trader has been killed in a “gunfight” with members of Rapid Action Battalion (RAB) in Natore.
The incident occurred in the Katashkol area of Baraigram upazila around midnight on Monday.
The deceased has been identified as Shirajul Islam, 34.
Natore RAB acting company commander Assistant Superintendent of Police Azmal Hossain confirmed the matter.
Azmal said a group of RAB members were on patrol near the Bonpara bypass intersection when they received a tip-off about a group of drug dealers conducting their business in the Katashkol area.
Upon reaching the location, RAB members spotted 3-4 people and tried to approach them. However, the suspects began shooting at them, causing RAB to fire back in self-defense.
After a five minute shootout , during which Shirajul was shot, the other suspects fled the scene. He was then taken to the Upazila Health Complex, where he was pronounced dead by the attending doctor.
Two RAB members were also injured, and have received treatment.
Azmal also said an imported pistol, a pistol magazine, 530 pieces of yaba, Tk3,205, a mobile phone, and some other objects were recovered from the scene.
Azmal also said: “Azmal is a listed criminal with five cases against him, including four related to narcotics.
“We are trying to capture those who escaped,” he added.