The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) special forces have eliminated a well-known terrorist kingpin, Mustapha Abdullahi, and five other members of his group in Igabi Local Government Area of Kaduna State.

According to Air Vice Marshal Edward Gabkwet, the Director of Public Relations and Information for NAF, the special forces were deployed from the 413 Force Protection Group.

In a statement released on Sunday, September 1, Gabkwet said the deployment followed an intelligence report received on August 31, that the terrorist kingpin and his group were sighted near Sabon Gida forest along Sabon Birni Road.

He said that their mission was likely intended to kidnap, harm or kill innocent civilians.

The Air Force spokesperson said that after making contact with the terrorists who were on motorcycles, the terrorists immediately opened fire on sighting the Special Forces, but were met with superior firepower by the troops.

The troops eliminated all the terrorists and recovered five Dane guns, a locally fabricated sub-machine gun, and live ammunition, as well as assorted charms, lighters, sim cards and cell 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 property,” Gabkwet said.