Rwandan police shot and killed a suspected terrorist in Kigali’s posh suburb of Nyarutarama on Wednesday night.

According to the Rwanda National Police (RNP), the suspect, identified as Channy Mbonigaba from Rubavu District, was pursued and shot in a standoff that lasted more than three hours, after he had barricaded himself in a house in the upscale suburb.

“In the incident which lasted about three hours on Wednesday night, the suspect exchanged fire with the police, injuring one officer,” the police said in a statement.

Mbonigaba is suspected of being part of a large group, mainly Muslim youths, who police say are engaged in acts of radicalism.

“Since last year, RNP has been investigating individuals suspected of being radicalised and linked to foreign terrorist organisations, several have appeared in court,” the statement added.

The police operation to uncover religious extremism targets Rubavu district, one of the districts with Muslim populations.

READ: Kigali moves to nip radicalisation and terrorist recruitment in the bud

The shooting of Mbonigaba follows that of Muhammad Mugemangango, a deputy Imam of Kimironko Mosque, who the police said was attempting to flee after he had been arrested on suspicion of terrorism.

Mr Mugemangango was accused of radicalising Muslim youth and recruiting them to join terror groups, including the Islamic State and the Al Shabaab.

READ: Rwandan police kill terror suspect during flee attempt

Following the incident, dozens of people linked to the cleric were arrested and charged with terrorism. The trial is still on going.