N/R: Suspected criminal killed in gunfire exchange with police

A suspected criminal has been fatally shot during a reported exchange of gunfire with the police in Tamale, located in the Northern Region

The police unit allegedly faced a violent confrontation while conducting an intelligence-led operation in the Aboabo Forest area of the Tamale Metropolis.

As they progressed through the region in pursuit of criminal gangs believed to be engaged in robbery and the trafficking of illegal drugs, the officers reportedly came under an unexpected gunfire assault from a group of armed suspects.

In accordance with police engagement protocols and legitimate self-defence measures, the officers reportedly returned fire to neutralise the perceived threat.

One suspect was hit during the exchange and subsequently died.

The remaining armed individuals fled the scene with their weapons as reinforcements arrived.

The team approached the injured suspect with the aim of providing aid and transporting him to the Tamale Teaching Hospital.

According to Graphic Online, upon arrival, the attending medical officer declared the suspect deceased.

The body was later taken to the mortuary for preservation pending an autopsy.

A police source indicated that the confrontation validated prior intelligence suggesting that the criminal elements in the area were heavily armed and ready to resist arrest violently.