'Robber' dies in Sundarbans 'gunfight'

BAGERHAT, Feb 18 (UNB): A suspected forest robber was killed in a 'gunfight' with members of Coast Guard in Sonaimukhi Khal area under Dakope thana in Khulna district early Monday.

The deceased, whose name could not be known immediately, was a member of forest robber gang 'Asabur Bahini'.

Lt Mohammad Bayazid, operation officer of Coast Guard Mongla West Zone, said on information that a gang of forest robbers gathered in the area, a team of Coast Guard conducted the drive.

Sensing their presence, the forest robbers opened fire on them, forcing the law enforcers to fire back that triggered the gunfight.

One of the forest robbers sustained bullet injuries during the gunfight.

Later, the injured was taken to Dakope Upazila Health Complex where doctors declared him dead.

The team also recovered four firearms and a bullet from the spot.