KUALA LUMPUR: A notorious local gang leader with a long criminal record was killed in a dramatic shootout with the police on Jalan Bukit Tunku here.

The 4.10am operation yesterday was part of a special initiative codenamed “Ops Api KL”, led by the Bukit Aman Crime Investigation Department (CID) in collaboration with the Kuala Lumpur Police.

Acting Bukit Aman CID director Deputy Comm Datuk Fadil Marsus said the 36-year-old Malaysian man was believed to be the mastermind behind a criminal syndicate involved in house break-ins, armed robbery and drug distribution across Kuala Lumpur, Perak and Selangor since last year, resulting in more than RM1mil in losses.

“The suspect, who was shot dead at the scene, is believed to be the leader of a gang that has been actively targeting homes and business premises with safes, gold and cash,” he told reporters.

Also at the scene were Sentul OCPD Asst Comm Ahmad Sukarno Mohd Zahari and other CID officers.

DCP Fadil said the suspect opened fire on police when they attempted to intercept him while he was allegedly surveying the area for potential robbery targets.

“A shootout ensued and the suspect fatally shot on-site.

“Several bullet holes were found on a police vehicle. A revolver was recovered from the suspect.”

DCP Fadil said the suspect had 44 offences on his criminal record.

Checks on the luxury vehicle driven by the suspect revealed that it was using a fake registration plate and is believed to have been smuggled in from a neighbouring country, he said.

“Investigations suggest that gang members sometimes pose as police officers and are also linked to a drug distribution syndicate.

“Efforts are ongoing to track down the remaining individuals involved,” he said.