The Canadian Royal Mounted Police have arrested the alleged killer of three fellow officers.

Paul Greene, a spokesman with the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP), says Justin Bourque was arrested at around 12.30am on Friday.

The 24-year-old Bourque was wanted after the shooting on Wednesday evening in the northwest area of the city that killed the three Mounties and wounded two others.

The ensuing manhunt left frightened residents locked indoors.

Police including tactical officers began their search for the shooter on Wednesday night after responding to a call about a man walking along a road with a gun.

After the call, shots were fired and officers called for backup.