Guwahati: 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, the encounter took place when police teams were conducting a search operation in the Songsak area. The suspected gang members allegedly opened fire at the police during the operation, prompting the personnel to retaliate.
Four suspected dacoits were killed in the ensuing exchange of fire. They were identified as Alachon Marak from Meghalaya, Kalam Sheikh of Agia, Bhabidul Islam of Krishnai, and Sustam Rabha.
Police sources said Alachon Marak was allegedly involved in the recent shooting of Dudhnoi-based businessman Abu Sayed.
Sayed was shot outside his business establishment on August 23. The incident had raised concerns in the area, with the assailants reportedly fleeing the scene after opening fire on him.
Police also alleged that Sustam Rabha was involved in a robbery case reported at Lela in Dudhnoi in 2021.
The bodies of the deceased were taken for necessary procedures, while further investigation into the encounter and the criminal cases allegedly linked to the group is underway.
More details regarding the police operation and the identities and backgrounds of the other deceased are awaited.