Rape accused killed in Fatikchhari ‘gunfight’

The prime accused in a gang-rape case has been killed in a ‘gunfight’ with police in Andharmanik area under Fatikchhariupazila in Chattogram.

The gunfight took place early Sunday.

The deceased was identified as HelalUddin, 30.

Bhujpur Police Station Officer-in-Charge (OC) Sheikh Mohammad Abdullah said on Saturday, a group of miscreants, led by Helal, picked up two girls while the victims were returning to their houses from Kazirhat Bazaar and raped them taking them to a nearby forest.

A case was lodged in this connection with the police and the police arrested Helal, the OC said.

Based on Helal’s statement, a police team, along with Helal, went to Andharmanik area to arrest the other accused.

As soon as the police reached the spot, Helal’s accomplices opened fire on the police, prompting the policemen to back fire in self-defencethat triggered a gunfight. Helal died on the spot.

Chattogram/Rezaul/Mukul