Troops of the Joint Task Force North West, Operation FANSAN YAMMA, have intercepted three disassembled canoes allegedly procured by notorious terrorist kingpin Shehu Bagewaye to facilitate the movement of his fighters across riverine areas of Zamfara State.
The interception followed credible intelligence that Bagewaye had arranged for the procurement of the canoes from Yauri Local Government Area of Kebbi State for onward transportation to Zamfara.
According to the Joint Task Force, intelligence indicated that the canoes were intended to help the terrorists overcome river obstacles restricting their movement and enhance their operational mobility in attacks against vulnerable communities.
Acting on the intelligence, troops of Sector 2 on August 23, 2026, conducted a covert operation along identified routes and successfully 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 after sighting the troops. The recovered equipment has since been taken into military custody, while efforts are ongoing to identify and apprehend those involved in the attempted movement.
The operation further highlights the growing effectiveness of intelligence-led operations by Operation FANSAN YAMMA in disrupting terrorist logistics and denying criminal elements the resources required to expand their mobility and operational reach.
The Joint Task Force said it would continue to target terrorist networks, logistics channels and freedom of movement before they can be exploited to threaten communities across the Joint Operations Area.
It also urged members of the public to provide timely and credible information to security agencies, stressing that public cooperation remains critical to disrupting terrorist activities and protecting lives and property.
The statement was signed by Lieutenant Colonel Aliyu Danja, Media Information Officer, Joint Task Force (North West), Operation FANSAN YAMMA.
