NAF kills terrorist kingpin, foot soldiers in Kaduna

A team of Special Forces from the Nigerian Air Force, 413 Force Protection Group, has killed a terrorist kingpin, Mustapha Abdullahi and some of his foot soldiers during a gun battle in Kaduna State.

The NAF special forces encountered the terrorists while combing the forest after intelligence had revealed the terrorists were planning an attack on the locals.

A statement on Sunday by the NAF’s spokesperson, Edward Gabkwet, said the operatives defeated the terrorists in the gun duel.

He said, “Following an intelligence report received on August 31, 2024, that a known terrorist kingpin, Mustapha Abdullahi, and five members of his group were sighted near the Sabon Gida Forest along Sabon Birni Road in Igabi Local Government Area, Kaduna State, with likely intent to kidnap, harm or kill innocent civilians, a team of Special Forces from the Nigerian Air Force 413 Force Protection Group was dispatched to comb the location.

“After making contact with the terrorists who were on motorcycles, on sighting the Special Forces, the terrorists immediately opened fire and were met with superior firepower by the troops, eliminating all the terrorists.”

Gabkwet said five Dane guns, locally fabricated sub-machine guns, among others, were recovered from the terrorists.

He said, “Items recovered from the terrorists included 5 den guns, locally fabricated sub-machine guns, and live ammunition. Others include assorted charms, lighters, sim cards and phone cases.

“Efforts by the troops to rid Igabi, Birnin Gwari and environs of criminals and their activities remain ongoing. Troops have also been commended and urged to intensify ongoing efforts to safeguard lives and properties.”