Four alleged members of an interstate criminal gang were killed in an early-morning encounter with police near Songsak in Meghalaya’s East Garo Hills district on Sunday.
According to preliminary reports, a police team was conducting a search operation in the Songsak area when the suspected criminals allegedly opened fire at the personnel. Police retaliated, leading to an exchange of fire in which four suspected dacoits were killed.
The deceased have been identified as Alachon Marak of Meghalaya, Agia’s Kalam Sheikh, Bhabidul Islam of Krishnai, and Sustam Rabha.
Police said Alachon Marak was allegedly involved in the shooting of Dudhnoi businessman Abu Sayed, who was shot outside his business establishment on August 23. The incident had caused concern in the area after the attackers reportedly fled the scene.
Police also alleged that Sustam Rabha was involved in a robbery case reported at Lela in Dudhnoi in 2021.
Further details about the encounter and the police operation are awaited.