In a statement, Penang police chief Hamzah Ahmad said the suspect had no identification documents on him.

“He is suspected to be a foreigner in his 30s,” he said.

Hamzah said a team from the state police criminal investigation department had been patrolling the area at 2.20am, when it came across the man riding on a motorcycle.

“The police officers approached the motorcyclist and asked him to identify himself before asking him to stop for a check, but he refused and sped off,” he said.

He said the officers gave chase and tried to intercept the man, who fired several shots towards them.

In an act of self-defence, the police team returned fire until the man collapsed, he said.

Upon checking the suspect, the police officers found a Glock pistol and heroin on him.

Hamzah said the case is being investigated for attempted murder, possession of firearms without a licence, and drug trafficking.