On Saturday, Special Forces from the Nigerian Air Force’s 413 Force Protection Group confronted a notorious terrorist kingpin and five of his gang members in a shootout along the Sabon-Birni road in Kaduna, resulting in the deaths of all six assailants.
The Director of Public Relations and Information for the Nigerian Air Force, Air Vice Marshal Edward Gabkwet, disclosed this on Sunday. He stated that the terrorists were en route to launch attacks and kidnap innocent citizens in nearby communities when they were intercepted by the Special Forces.
AVM Gabkwet said, “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.
“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.
“Items recovered from the terrorists included 5 den guns, locally fabricated sub-machine gun, and live ammunitions.
“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.”