Manila - Seven suspected robbers were killed Wednesday in a shootout with policemen along a busy road in the Philippine capital, a police official said.

Chief Superintendent Roberto Rosales said the fighting erupted when the suspects, who were aboard two vehicles, ignored a police checkpoint along Del Pan Bridge in downtown Manila.

The policemen quickly gave chase and the suspects opened fire, triggering a shootout, Rosales said.

Four of the suspected robbers were killed on the spot, while three died upon arrival in a nearby hospital.

Rosales said the slain suspects were members of a large robbery and kidnapping syndicate operating in Manila and nearby provinces. (dpa)