Alleged drug dealer killed in ‘gunfight’ with Rab in Jashore

An alleged drug dealer was killed in a "gunfight" with Rapid Action Battalion (Rab) at a field in Shorkhola village under Avoynagar upazila of Jashore district earlier today.

The deceased, Maruf Mollah (26), son of Muslim Mollah, hailed from Buikara village of Naoyapara municipality, reports our correspondent quoting Lt Col Rawshan Kabir, commander of Rab-6.

Upon receiving information that a group of drug dealers were suppling phensidyl among dealers, a team of Rab-6 conducted the anti-narcotic drive there last night, said the Rab official.

Sensing the presence of the elite force, the alleged drug dealers opened fire targeting Rab personnel, forcing the Rab members to shoot back and retaliate, claimed the Rab official.

Two Rab members were injured in the ensuing gunfight.

Later, Rab personnel found the bullet hit body of Maruf lying on the ground while his associates managed to flee the scene, Rawshan said, adding that Maruf was taken to Avoynagar Upazila Health Complex where on duty doctors declared him dead, he said.

The two Rab personnel who received injuries were taken to Khulna Navy Hospital for treatment, Rawshan added.

The Rab members also recovered a foreign-made handgun and 100 bottles of phensidyl from the spot.

A case is underway in this connection.