One person was killed after police opened fire at members of the ‘Awa’ group last night around 8.40 pm at Manipai, Jaffna.

Manipai police had received information that members of the ‘Awa’ group are arriving with sharp weapons to attack several houses.

Subsequently the police carried out a search operation.

When police attempted to arrest 6 suspects who arrived on 3 motorbikes with weapons the suspects had attacked the police with swords and the police opened fire killing one suspect.

Police media spokespersons office stated that five other members of the criminal gang, which has been linked to multiple incidents of violence and crimes in the Northern Province, escaped after the clash with police.

Three swords and a motorcycle left behind by the suspects have been taken into police custody.