A criminal allegedly belonging to a gang of forest robbers was killed in a 'gunfight' with Rapid Action Battalion (Rab) in Dakatiya Canal area under Sharankhola Range of the Sundarbans in the district yesterday morning.

The 'gunfight' took place when alleged members of a notorious robber gang, locally known as Gariber Bondhu Bahini, fired gunshots at a patrol team of Rab in Dakatiya Canal area, Rab sources said.

 The 'gunfight' continued for about 45 minutes.

Later, the law enforcers searched the area and found a bullet-hit dead body and three firearms.

Local fishermen said that the deceased was a member of Gariber Bondhu Bahini.

However, the proper identity of the deceased could not be ascertained, said Deputy Commander of Rab-8 Major Sohel Rana Prince.

The elite force handed over the body and the firearms to Mongla Police Station.

Two cases were filed in connection with the incident, said the officer-in-charge of the police station.