An alleged criminal was killed in a "gunfight" with the law enforcers in Chittagong city early today.

Deceased Arman Hazari, 35, was accused in minimum 23 criminal cases including extortion. He was a resident of Shamserpara area in the port city, reports our Chittagong correspondent.

On secret information, police conducted a drive in Shamserpara area around 4:30am to arrest Arman and his associates, said Shahidul Islam, officer-in-charge (investigation) of Chandgaon Police Station.

Sensing presence of the law enforcers, Arman and his cohorts opened fire, prompting the team to retaliate that triggered a "gunfight".

Arman received a bullet during the "gun battle" while his cohorts managed to flee the scene, the OC said.

Police took him to Chittagong Medical College Hospital where doctors declared him dead.