‘Drug peddler’ killed in Noakhali ‘gunfight’

A suspected drug peddler was killed in a reported gunfight with police in Chatkhil upazila of Noakhali early today.

The deceased was identified as Monir Hossain, 36, son of Nuruzzaman, resident of Porkut union. He was accused in 16 cases, police said.

 Anwarul Islam, officer-in-charge of Chatkhil Police Station, said they arrested Monir acting on a tip-off.

A police team later conducted a drive in Goni Miar Doroja area along with Monir to recover firearms and yaba.

When the team reached the area, Monir's cohorts opened fire and tried to snatch him. In the ensuing skirmish, Monir sustained gunshot wounds.

He was taken to Noakhali Genera Hospital where doctors declared him dead.

Three policemen -- sub-inspector Krishna Kumar Das, assistant sub-inspectors Emran Ali and Abdul Wadud -- were injured in the gunfight, police said.

A local gun, four bullets, a machete and 50 yaba pills were recovered from the spot.