Khulna, July 23 (UNB) – The ringleader of a ‘robber gang’ and another member were killed in a reported gunfight with Rapid Action Battalion (Rab) in the Sundarbans under Dacope upazila early Tuesday. 

The deceased were identified as Khaleque, 35, lynchpin of ‘Khaleque Bahini, and its member Belal, 39.

Shafiqul Islam Chowdhury, officer-in-charge of Dakope Police Station, said a team of Rab-8 conducted a drive in Jangra Khal area of the forest under Chandpai range around 5am. 

Sensing law enforcers’ presence, robbers opened fire on them, forcing them to fire back in self-defence that triggered a gunfight, he said.  

After the gunfight, bullet-hit Khaleque and Belal were found lying dead, the OC said, adding that 10 firearms and huge ammunition were recovered from the spot.