Army intercepts three disassembled canoes procured for terrorist leader in Zamfara

Troops from the Joint Task Force North West, Operation FANSAN YAMMA, seized three disassembled canoes allegedly obtained by terrorist leader Shehu Bagewaye to assist his fighters in crossing rivers in Zamfara State, on August 23, 2026. The discovery of the canoes was based on reliable intelligence indicating they had been bought in Kebbi State's Yauri Local Government and were being moved to Zamfara.

The canoes were meant to facilitate the terrorists' movement and make it easier for them to carry out attacks against vulnerable communities. In response to the intelligence, soldiers from Sector 2 carried out a discreet operation in specific areas and intercepted the three canoes as they were being transported. The individuals carrying the canoes reportedly abandoned them upon seeing the troops.

The seized canoes are currently under the control of the troops, and efforts are underway to locate those involved in the attempted transfer. The Joint Task Force highlighted this operation as a successful intelligence-driven effort to disrupt the terrorists' logistics and prevent them from gaining resources to improve their mobility and operational capabilities.

The military reiterated its commitment to identifying and dismantling terrorist networks, logistics, and mobility before they pose a threat to communities. They also appealed to the public to continue supplying accurate and timely information to security forces to aid in disrupting terrorist activities and protecting lives and property in the Joint Operations Area.