A dramatic shootout between a 'gangster' and police was captured on video in Thailand.

Thai police were about to serve an arrest warrant to Jamrat Rakchan, 45, when the gunfight ensued as the alleged bandit resisted authorities in Phatthalung province, southern Thailand on March 9.

Police Major Anan Meesang died at the scene after being shot with an unknown type of firearm in the head. One of the assailants Watchara Rattanasuwan, 38, was also killed.

Two other officers were injured. Lieutenant Colonel Chatchai Sanyo who had severe gunshot wounds in the right forearm while Lieutenant Colonel Nopada Natanapong suffered a minor injury in the right eyebrow area as well as wounds from broken glass.

Police Lieutenant General Nanthadej Yayoonuan said: 'The central investigation police visited the area last night. There had been no obstacle in chasing the three suspects, we continued to find a lot of evidence but we cannot reveal any at the moment.'

Officers tracked down the gangsters and found their car parked on the foothill of Khao Banthat wildlife sanctuary. Cotton wool soaked with blood was found burnt outside the car while blood traces were also found in the vehicle.

Police have also been sent to hospitals and pharmacies in the area to watch out for the assailants. Locals have also been offered rewards if they come across the gangsters and contact the police.

One of the escapees, a hired gunman Jamrat Rakchan had been accused in murder cases and attempted murder cases in both Phatthalung and Songkhla province, wanted by the police with a bounty of 100,000 baht.

Police Lieutenant General Nanthadej added that police have gotten in touch with the other two escapees Jay Suwanmano, 22, and Attapol Maiaon, 21, parents to collect DNA.

He said: 'We have collected DNA samples from the gangster’s parents so we can compare them with the traces found in the car.'

Attapol’s mother, Wanpen Maiaon said: ‘My son has left the house since March 7 saying that he went to work lumbering with a friend in another village.

'Last night, I heard from relatives that my son had gone with a group of friends and was chased by police. There was a shooting fight and he was injured.

'I hope my child would contact me to surrender to the officers so his wounds could be treated.’

The alleged gangsters were still being pursued by the police.