Troops of Operation Hadin Kai have killed a top Boko Haram commander and arrested a suspected drone supplier during separate operations in Madagali Local Government Area of Adamawa State.
The operations, which took place on Thursday, were carried out with the support of local vigilantes and hunters. Security sources said the actions were part of ongoing efforts to weaken insurgent networks operating in parts of the North-East.
According to information gathered, troops engaged suspected Boko Haram fighters in an ambush along the Visik River line in Madagali. During the encounter, Abdullahi Mafa, described as a former hybrid commander of the group, was killed.
Security officials said Mafa had been on the radar of the military for some time. He was said to be notorious for coordinating attacks on communities in Madagali and nearby areas. Residents had linked him to several deadly raids in the past, including attacks on villages and security positions.
A military source said the successful ambush was the result of credible intelligence and close monitoring of insurgent movements in the area. “The troops acted swiftly and engaged the terrorists. One of their key commanders, Abdullahi Mafa, was neutralised during the exchange,” the source said.
Later the same day, around 6:30pm, troops carried out a raid at Madagali Motor Park. During the operation, a 64-year-old man identified as Dauda Usman Gubula was arrested. He is suspected of supplying drones and other logistics to Boko Haram fighters.
Authorities said two aerial drones and 20 solar power banks were recovered from the suspect at the time of his arrest. Security officials believe the items were meant to support insurgent operations, including surveillance and communication.
The suspect is currently in custody and undergoing investigation. Military authorities say further details will be made public as investigations continue.
Madagali Local Government Area is one of the communities in Adamawa State that has suffered heavily from insurgency activities over the past decade. The area shares borders with Borno State and is close to the Sambisa forest region, which has long served as a hideout for insurgents.
The Boko Haram insurgency began in 2009 and has affected several states in the North-East, including Borno State, Yobe State and Adamawa State. Thousands of people have been killed, and millions displaced from their homes since the crisis started.
In response, the Nigerian military launched several operations aimed at defeating the insurgents. Operation Hadin Kai is the current military operation in the North-East, replacing earlier operations such as Lafiya Dole. The operation focuses on clearing terrorist enclaves, protecting civilians and restoring normal life to affected communities.
Over the years, Boko Haram has split into factions, with some groups pledging allegiance to the Islamic State. Despite losing territory and many commanders, the group has continued to carry out attacks, especially in remote and border communities.
Local residents in Madagali have welcomed the latest military success. Some community leaders said the killing of a top commander like Mafa could weaken the group’s operations in the area.
“For years, our people have lived in fear. Any step taken to remove those who attack our villages is a relief to us,” a local elder said.
The collaboration between troops, vigilantes and local hunters has been described as a key factor in recent gains. Local groups often provide information about suspicious movements and help guide troops through difficult terrain.
The Nigerian government has repeatedly assured citizens that the fight against insurgency remains a top priority. Military authorities say operations will continue in Madagali and surrounding areas to ensure that remaining insurgent cells are dismantled.
In recent months, the military has reported several successful operations in the North-East, including the rescue of kidnapped victims and the destruction of terrorist camps. Still, sporadic attacks continue, showing that the conflict is not yet over.
As investigations into the arrested suspect continue, security agencies are working to uncover possible links and supply chains that support insurgent activities. Officials believe cutting off logistics and technical support is as important as eliminating fighters on the battlefield.
For residents of Madagali, the hope is that sustained operations will bring lasting peace. Many displaced families are eager to return fully to farming and other daily activities without fear of attack.
The latest operation sends a strong message that security forces remain active in tracking and targeting insurgent leaders and collaborators.
