Troops intensify offensive, arrest 64-year-old Boko Haram drone supplier in Adamawa

Troops under the Joint Task Force Operation HADIN KAI have stepped up offensive operations targeting Boko Haram elements in Adamawa and Borno states, leading to the arrest of suspected collaborators, elimination of fighters, and recovery of arms and surveillance equipment allegedly deployed against security personnel.

In a statement released on Friday by the operation’s Media Information Officer, Lieutenant Colonel Sani Uba, the military disclosed that “troops of Sector 4 under 28 Task Force Brigade apprehended 28-year-old Ismail Muhammed, a terrorist logistics supplier, in the Visik General area of Hong Local Government Area, Adamawa State.”

Recovered from the suspect were “one AK-47 magazine, rounds of 7.62mm ammunition, military accoutrements and assorted foodstuffs.”

He remains in military custody as investigations continue.

In another development in Madagali Local Government Area, troops “neutralised a terrorist commander, Abdullahi Mafa, during an ambush operation around the Visik River line,” with “an AK-47 rifle as well as a loaded magazine” retrieved from the scene.

Following actionable intelligence, soldiers also apprehended 64-year-old Dauda Usman Gubula, identified as a “terrorist collaborator and drone supplier responsible for supplying drones to the terrorists, which are subsequently locally armed and used against troops.”

Security forces recovered “two aerial drones, drone accessories and 20 solar power banks,” underscoring concerns over the growing deployment of technology by insurgents in their attacks.

Meanwhile, in Borno State, troops of Operation HADIN KAI, alongside local vigilantes and members of the Civilian Joint Task Force, “repelled insurgent activity in Ngamdu and neutralised a terrorist informant attempting to breach defensive positions.”

Additional logistics materials were also seized during the coordinated operations.

The military noted that the operations are part of “sustained efforts to disrupt Boko Haram supply lines, restore security, and protect communities across the North-East region.”

The Military High Command applauded the troops for “their sacrifices and dedication in the fight against terrorism in the North East region,” encouraging them “to sustain the operational tempo.”