A man well known to police is shot dead during an exchange of gunfire.

According to officers, the incident occurred at around 6:45AM yesterday in Point Fortin.

A release from the police service says, officers on an anti crime exercise came across a marijuana field, in the Newlands area, when they spotted two men.

Police say one of the men fled the scene while the other pointed a shotgun in the direction of the officers.

In response the officers opened fire hitting Ato Bailey in the neck and chest.

Newscenter Five understands Mr Bailey was rushed to hospital but died on arrival.

Police say Mr Bailey had several outstanding warrants, including a string of robberies.

A shotgun with six rounds of twelve gauge ammunition was recovered at the scene.

The exercise was spearheaded by senior superintendent Narzool Hosein and a team of officers from the south western division.