Security
Troops Intercept Three Canoes Linked to Terrorist Kingpin in Zamfara
Troops of the Joint Task Force North West, Operation FANSAN YAMMA, have intercepted three disassembled canoes allegedly procured by suspected terrorist kingpin Shehu Bagewaye to facilitate the movement of his fighters across riverine areas of Zamfara State.
The operation, carried out on Sunday, August 23, 2026, followed intelligence indicating that the terrorist leader had arranged for the canoes to be procured from Yauri Local Government Area of Kebbi State and transported to Zamfara.
According to the Joint Task Force, the canoes were intended to help the terrorists overcome river barriers that had been limiting their movement and improve their mobility for attacks and other criminal activities against communities.
Acting on the intelligence, troops of Sector 2 conducted a covert operation along an identified route and intercepted the three canoes while they were being transported to their intended destination.
The individuals conveying the canoes reportedly abandoned the items and fled after sighting the troops.
The recovered canoes have since been taken into military custody, while security personnel are working to identify and apprehend those involved in the attempted movement.
Operation FANSAN YAMMA described the interception as another intelligence-led success in its efforts to disrupt terrorist logistics and deny criminal elements resources that could strengthen their operational reach.
The Joint Task Force said it would continue targeting terrorist networks, logistics and freedom of movement before they can be used to threaten communities across the Joint Operations Area.
It also urged members of the public to continue providing timely and credible information to security agencies, stressing that community cooperation remains crucial to preventing 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, on August 23, 2026.