Ghaziabad, Dec 08: Three alleged dacoits were shot dead in an encounter with police this morning in Massoorie near here, leading to protests by locals who claimed those killed were innocents. Police sources said the three were fleeing after committing a dacoity in Hapur when they were challenged by the police and in the ensuing exchange of fire, they were killed. None of the three has been identified so far, sources added. However, some persons from nearby Dehra village pelted stones at police vehicles and shouted slogans against the police action, alleging that the three were innocent. The bodies of the deceased have been sent for post-mortem. Bureau Report