A murder accused was arrested in an encounter with the police in Phaphamau area of Prayagraj district here in Uttar Pradesh, a police officer said here on Monday.

Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) Abhishek Bharati said that on Sunday night Sandeep Pal and Harsh alias Billa had a scuffle over an old rivalry.

"During scuffle Harsh shot Sandeep injuring him seriously. The injured was admitted to the hospital where he succumbed to injury," he said.

He said that five teams were constituted to arrest the accused.

"During vehicle checking the police team attempted to intercept a motorcyclists, who in a bid to escape opened fire. In retaliatory firing the miscreant sustained bullet injury and was arrested," he said.

The DCP said that the arrested accused was identified as Harsh.

"The accused has been admitted to a hospital. On the complaint of Sandeep's brother Ranjit a case has been lodged and the matter is being investigated," he said.