Nigerian soldiers arrest Boko Haram drone supplier, neutralise commander in Zamfara

By Sabiu Abdullahi

Troops of Operation HADIN KAI, working alongside local vigilantes and hunters, have neutralised a senior Boko Haram figure identified as Abdullahi Mafa in the Madagali axis of Zamfara State.

Security sources disclosed that Mafa, described as a former hybrid commander of the terrorist group, was killed during a coordinated operation in the area.

In a separate development, troops also apprehended a suspected logistics and drone supplier to the insurgents, Dauda Usman Gubula, during another mission in Madagali Local Government Area.

According to security analyst, Zagazola Makama, the encounter took place on Thursday. He said troops came in contact with suspected Boko Haram fighters during an ambush along the Visik River corridor.

The confrontation led to the death of the terrorist commander after an exchange of fire.

Makama further revealed that the alleged collaborator was arrested in a different operation. He said the suspect was picked up during a raid carried out at Madagali Motor Park.

Quoting officials, he stated that security operatives recovered several items from the suspect. These included two aerial drones and 20 solar power banks believed to be meant for terrorist operations.

The suspect remains in custody as investigations continue.

Meanwhile, troops have sustained offensive actions across the region. The ongoing operations are targeted at dismantling Boko Haram cells and restoring normalcy in affected communities.