China's state-run media reported Thursday that a suspected North Korean defector has been killed by Chinese border guards near the border with North Korea.
  

The incident took place around 3:55 a.m. on Thursday near the Chinese border town of Nanping, just north of the Tumen River that divides the two countries, the Chinese media reported citing authorities.
  

The victim is believed to be a North Korean defector and was shot dead by Chinese border guards after resisting arrest in Nanping, according to the reports.
  

Officials at China's foreign ministry were not immediately available for comment.
  

A North Korean army deserter killed four Chinese people during a robbery attempt in Nanping late last year.
  

Chinese authorities have stepped up border patrols since then. (Yonhap)