Criminal gunned down in Uttar Pradesh

Usman alias Laden, 25, was killed during a gun battle in Badausa area, while his three accomplices managed to escape.

"Acting on a tip-off, we intercepted Usman and his aides, who started firing at the police team. We retaliated and Usman was killed," police inspector Pradeep Yadav told reporters in Banda, some 250 km from Lucknow.

According to police, Usman was a native of Uttar Pradesh.

"Criminal cases against Usman were pending in various police stations of Uttar Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh. Efforts are on to nab Usman's aides," added Yadav.