A man has been shot dead during a police operation involving armed officers.

Cheshire Police said the man was shot after the car he was in was stopped by officers from Greater Manchester Police (GMP).

The incident, which took place in Culcheth last night, has been referred to the Independent Police Complaints Commission (IPCC).

Two men were arrested at the scene and are in police custody.

A Cheshire Police spokesman said: "At around 7.20pm on Saturday March 3, an incident took place near Jackson
Avenue in Culcheth, Cheshire, whereby a car was stopped by armed officers from Greater Manchester Police.

"During the contact, a male occupant of the car was shot and sustained fatal injuries.

"Two men were arrested at the scene and remain in custody. The deceased's next of kin have been informed.

"Cheshire Constabulary and Greater Manchester Police are now investigating the full circumstances of the incident and the Independent Police Complaints Commission have been informed.

"Cheshire police patrols have been increased in the area, and the community of Culcheth should be reassured

that this is an isolated incident and there is no risk to the community as a whole."

A GMP spokesman said the IPCC was investigating the fatal shooting.

The force said on Twitter: "Independent Police Complaints Commission investigating fatal shooting of man in Cheshire following GMP op. GMP unable to comment further."