NAF eliminates terrorist leader, five members in Kaduna, recovers weapons

Special Forces from the Nigerian Air Force’s 413 Force Protection Group, on Saturday, engaged a notorious terrorist kingpin, Mustapha Abdullahi, and five members of his gang in a shootout along Sabon-Birni Road in Kaduna. All six terrorists were killed during the operation.

Air Vice Marshal Edward Gabkwet, Director of NAF Public Relations and Information, reported on Sunday that the terrorists were en route to attack and abduct civilians in nearby communities when the clash occurred.

“Following intelligence report received on 31 August 2024 that a known terrorist kingpin, Mustapha Abdullahi, and 5 members of his group were sighted near Sabon Gida Forest along Sabon Birni Road in Igabi Local Government Area (LGA), Kaduna State with likely intent to kidnap, harm or kill innocent civilians, a team of Special Forces from the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) 413 Force Protection Group was dispatched to comb the location,” Gabkwet said.

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He added, “After making contact with the terrorists who were on motor cycles, on sighting the Special Forces, the terrorists immediately opened fire and were met with superior fire power by the troops, eliminating all the terrorists.”

The recovered items included five den guns, a locally fabricated sub-machine gun, and live ammunition. Additional items seized were assorted charms, lighters, SIM cards, and phone cases.

Gabkwet noted that efforts to combat crime in Igabi, Birnin Gwari, and surrounding areas are ongoing. He praised the troops for their performance and urged them to continue their efforts to protect lives and property.

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