Rajshahi: A suspected drug peddler was killed in a gunfight between their cohorts and Rapid Action Battalion (Rab) members at PaschimNaboganga Kashiadanga in the city early on Thursday.

The deceased is Abul Hasan alias Hasan Ghatial of Damkura area in Poba upazila.

Tipped off, a team of Rab-5 conducted a drive in the area around 12:30am, said Lieutenant Colonel Mahabub Alam, commanding officer of Rab-5.

Sensing the presence of the elite force, the criminals opened fire on Rab members, prompting them to retaliate that triggered a gunfight.

At one stage, Hasan was caught in the line of fire and died on the spot. Hasan was wanted in 16 cases, said Rab. 

Firearms, bullets, phensidyl and huge drugs were recovered from the spot.