A police constable was killed and another injured after their colleague allegedly fired at them following an altercation in West Khasi Hills district, police said on Thursday.

The constables, who were posted as security guards at the United Bank of India branch at Nongshillong, 125 km from Shillong, suddenly got involved in the scuffle on Wednesday.

Two personnel T N Marak and R Bordoloi were shot at by their colleague M N Marak from a close range after some heated verbal exchanges, they said.

Marak died on spot while Bordoloi got injured.

The weapon used in the shooting was recovered and Marak was arrested.

Police were confirming reports if the brawl broke out during a drinking session.

A departmental inquiry is on to ascertain the circumstances behind the firing.