A suspected criminal has been killed in a said gun fire exchange with the police in Tamale in the Northern Region.

The police team reportedly encountered a violent confrontation during an intelligence-led operation at the Aboabo Forest enclave in the Tamale Metropolis.

While advancing through the area in search of criminal gangs, who were said to be involved in robbery and the trafficking of illicit drugs, the policemen reportedly came under a sudden gunfire attack from a group of armed suspects. 

Acting in line with police rules of engagement and legitimate self-defence protocols, the policemen reportedly returned fire to neutralise the said threat. 

One suspect was struck during the exchange, and he died. 

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

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

Graphic Online understands that upon arrival, the attending medical officer pronounced the suspect dead. 

The body was subsequently deposited at the mortuary for preservation pending autopsy. 

According to a police source, the confrontation confirmed earlier intelligence indicating that the criminal elements within the area were heavily armed and prepared to violently resist arrest.