NAF kills ‘terrorist kingpin’ during gun duel in Kaduna forest

Troops of the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) have reportedly killed Mustapha Abdullahi, a terrorist leader, during a gun battle in Sabon Gida forest, Igabi LGA of Kaduna.

In a statement on Sunday, Edward Gabkwet, NAF spokesperson, said a team of special forces received intelligence that terrorists were planning to attack residents of the state.

Gabkwet said the troops encountered the terrorists while combing the forest and engaged them in a gun battle.

He said the troops overpowered the terrorists, killing their leader and five other members.

“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,” the statement reads.

“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.

“Items recovered from the terrorists included five dane guns, locally fabricated submachine 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.”

The NAF spokesperson commended the troops for their dedication and urged them to intensify efforts to secure the lives and properties of citizens.