Troops of the Joint Task Force (North-East) Operation HADIN KAI have arrested suspected Boko Haram collaborators and neutralised insurgents during coordinated offensives across Adamawa State and Borno State.

According to a statement issued by Sani Uba, Lieutenant Colonel and Media Information Officer of the task force, troops of Sector 4 under the 28 Task Force Brigade apprehended 28-year-old Ismail Muhammed in the Visik General area of Hong Local Government Area.

He was described as a logistics supplier to terrorists. Recovered items reportedly included an AK-47 magazine, 7.62mm ammunition, military accoutrements, and assorted foodstuffs. He is currently in custody for further investigation.

In a separate operation within Madagali Local Government Area, troops carried out an ambush along the Visik River line and killed a suspected insurgent commander identified as Abdullahi Mafa. An AK-47 rifle and a loaded magazine were recovered from the scene.

Acting on follow-up intelligence, soldiers also arrested 64-year-old Dauda Usman Gubula at Madagali Motor Park. He was accused of collaborating with terrorists and supplying drones allegedly modified locally for attacks against troops. Items reportedly recovered from him included two aerial drones, accessories, and 20 solar power banks.

Meanwhile, in Sector 2 operations, troops working alongside the Civilian Joint Task Force repelled insurgent activity in Ngamdu and killed a suspected informant who attempted to breach defensive positions. Security sources said logistical materials were also recovered.

Military authorities said the operations form part of sustained offensives aimed at disrupting insurgent supply chains, restoring stability, and safeguarding communities across Nigeria’s North-East.

The High Command commended troops for their efforts and urged them to maintain operational momentum in the counter-terrorism campaign.

The Nigerian Navy has announced the death of its Chief of Operations, Rear Admiral Musa Bello Katagum, following a brief illness.

According to reports, the senior naval officer, who most recently served at Defence Headquarters and previously held the position of Chief of Naval Intelligence, passed away on Thursday. Security analyst Zagazola Makama disclosed that Katagum had only recently been appointed Chief of Operations by the Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Idi Abbas.

In his role, Katagum supervised key operational activities and played a major part in strengthening Nigeria’s maritime security architecture. Throughout his career, he was widely regarded as a strategic thinker who helped shape operational doctrine, enhance intelligence systems, and mentor younger officers within the service.

Colleagues described him as a disciplined and visionary leader whose meticulous approach ensured the Navy maintained high readiness to defend Nigeria’s territorial waters and maritime interests. His professional legacy, they noted, will continue to influence naval operations for years to come.

The announcement of his passing has drawn tributes from senior officers and personnel across the Armed Forces, many of whom remembered him as a symbol of courage, humility, and dedication to service. They also praised his commitment to the welfare and professional growth of those who worked with him.

In a brief statement, the Navy said officers, ratings, and the entire naval community were in mourning and prayed for the peaceful repose of the late admiral’s soul.

Gunmen have abducted and murdered traditional ruler Oba Kehinde Jacob Falodun, the Alagamo of Agamo community in Ondo State, after storming his residence in Akure North Local Government Area.

Police said about six armed men invaded the monarch’s palace on Wednesday night and forcibly took him away. The spokesman of the state police command, Abayomi Jimoh, disclosed that the report was received at about 7:50 p.m. from a community leader, High Chief Ajewole Clement of New Town, Itaogbolu.

According to Jimoh, the attackers fled after abducting the ruler, whose body was later discovered a few metres from his residence with gunshot wounds. He was confirmed dead at the scene.

Security operatives, including detectives and tactical teams, were immediately mobilised alongside local security groups such as Atuluse Security, hunters, and operatives of Amotekun Corps to comb surrounding bushes and adjoining areas in search of the assailants.

The police spokesperson urged residents to remain calm and assist investigators with credible information that could lead to the arrest of those responsible, assuring that authorities would pursue the case diligently and bring the perpetrators to justice.

The killing adds to growing concerns over attacks on community leaders and rising insecurity in parts of the state.