Troops Intercept Three Canoes Procured by Terrorist Kingpin, Disrupt Logistics Plan in Zamfara
By Zagazola Makama
Troops of the Joint Task Force North West, Operation FANSAN YAMMA, have intercepted three disassembled canoes reportedly procured by a notorious terrorist kingpin, Shehu Bagewaye, to facilitate the movement of his fighters across riverine areas of Zamfara State.
The operation, conducted on Sunday, August 23, 2026, 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.
According to a statement by the Joint Task Force Media Information Officer, Lieutenant Colonel Aliyu Danja, intelligence indicated that the canoes were intended to help the terrorists overcome river obstacles restricting their movement and enhance their mobility for criminal activities against vulnerable communities.
Acting on the intelligence, troops of Sector 2 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 after sighting the troops.
The recovered items have been taken into military custody, while efforts are ongoing to identify and apprehend those involved in the attempted movement.
The interception is the latest in a series of intelligence-led operations by Operation FANSAN YAMMA aimed at disrupting terrorist logistics and denying criminal elements the resources required to expand their mobility and operational reach.
The Joint Task Force said the operation underscores the importance of timely intelligence in identifying and disrupting terrorist logistics networks before they can be deployed against communities.
It reiterated its commitment to sustaining pressure on terrorist and criminal networks by targeting their logistics, movements and operational capabilities across the Joint Operations Area.
The task force also urged members of the public to continue providing timely and credible information to security forces, stressing that community cooperation remains critical to preventing terrorist activities and protecting lives and property.
