At least six people have been killed in a robbery attack in the Northern Region town of Tatale, which started Sunday evening.

The deceased persons comprise three robbers and three residents.

Paramount Chief of Tatale Yankossor Gariba II told Joy News Monday, there was still firing of gun in the area. He completely ruled out any semblance of ethnic clashes. 

According to him, the robbers attacked some rich residents in the area before attacking some stores.

He said the robbers fired indiscriminately in an attempt to provoke fear in the residents.

Some of the residents who were also armed decided to return fire resulting in a deadly exchange of gun fire.

The paramount chief of Tatale said the police were invited but they were woefully outnumbered.

Joy News' Tamale correspondent Martina Bugri reports residents have started arming themselves to avert any future attacks.

She said the robbery attacks have become one too many and because the police have been unable to protect them and their properties, the residents have decided to protect themselves. It is not clear yet what properties have been stolen.

Martina Bugri said there is still gun battle going on between the robbers and some residents.

The police have meanwhile called for reinforcement in a desperate attempt to restore order.

Eric Nartey, a resident said none of the robbers have been arrested thus far but economic activity has been halted.