QUETTA, Dec 25: A gang of kidnappers was busted by city police on Thursday. The leader of the gang was killed and its three members were arrested after a gunbattle in the outskirts of the provincial capital.

The gang was involved in a number of incidents of kidnappings for ransom, police said.

Police also rescued Mohammad Asif Bangulzai who had been kidnapped three weeks ago from Killi Qabrani. The gang had demanded Rs30 million for his release.

Acting on a tip-off, a heavy contingent of police raided a house in the Killi Qambrani locality. Members of the gang opened fire on the police party. The ensuing exchange of fire continued for an hour during which gang leader Asghar was killed.

Head constable Kamran suffered injuries. Police arrested three members of the gang, identified as Dad Mohammad, Abdul Sattar and Sheikh Mohammad.