Troops of the Joint Task Force North West, Operation FANSAN YAMMA, have intercepted three disassembled canoes reportedly linked to a movement plan by a notorious terrorist kingpin, Shehu Bagewaye, in Zamfara State.
According to an official statement signed by Lieutenant Colonel Aliyu Danja, Media Information Officer, Joint Task Force (North West), Operation FANSAN YAMMA, the interception followed credible intelligence indicating that the terrorist leader had arranged for the procurement of the canoes from Yauri Local Government Area of Kebbi State for onward movement into Zamfara.
The statement said the canoes were intended to facilitate the movement of the terrorist group across riverine areas and help its members overcome water obstacles restricting their mobility.
Acting on the intelligence, troops of Sector 2 on Sunday, 23 August 2026, conducted a covert operation along identified areas of interest and intercepted the three disassembled canoes while they were being transported towards their intended destination.
The individuals conveying the items reportedly abandoned the canoes and fled upon sighting the troops.
The recovered items have been taken into military custody, while efforts are ongoing to track down and apprehend those connected with the attempted movement.
The Joint Task Force said the operation highlighted the effectiveness of intelligence-driven operations in disrupting terrorist logistics and denying criminal elements resources required to enhance their mobility and operational reach.
It said troops would continue to target terrorist networks, logistics channels and freedom of movement in order to prevent attacks on vulnerable communities across the Joint Operations Area.
The military also urged members of the public to provide timely and credible information to security forces, stressing that continued public cooperation remained critical to disrupting terrorist activities and protecting lives and property.
