The New Nation - Internet Edition

UNB, Rajshahi

A top leader of outlawed Purbo Banglar Communist Party was killed in a shootout with police at Goyalkandi Madhyapara village in Bagmara upazila early yesterday.

The deceased was identified as Sirajul Islam alias Surya, 30, son of late Ihsak Ali of Namkan village and a leader of PBCP (Lal Pataka).

Police said Siraj was wanted in five criminal cases, including murder.

Acting on a tip-off, a police team from Bagmara thana rushed to the spot early hours today and found 30 to 35 underground activists were holding a secret meeting.

Sensing the presence of police, the activists opened fire. Police retaliated triggering a gun battle. Soon the activists retreated leaving behind Siraj fatally wounded.

Police rushed him to Bagmara Health Complex where doctors declared him dead.

A shutter gun with five rounds of bullet was recovered from the spot.