In a significant operation, troops from the Joint Task Force North West, known as Operation FANSAN YAMMA, have successfully intercepted three disassembled canoes that were reportedly procured for the notorious terrorist leader Shehu Bagewaye. The canoes were intended to facilitate the movement of his fighters across riverine areas in Zamfara State.

The interception occurred on August 23, 2026, following credible intelligence that the canoes had been sourced from Yauri Local Government Area in Kebbi State. They were in transit to Zamfara when the troops acted on the intelligence, conducting a covert operation in identified areas of interest.

According to a statement from Aliyu Danja, the Media Information Officer for the Joint Task Force, the operation led to the successful recovery of the canoes, which were meant to assist terrorists in overcoming river obstacles that hinder their movement. This would have enhanced their mobility for criminal activities targeting vulnerable communities in the region.

Reports indicate that the individuals transporting the canoes abandoned them and fled upon sighting the military forces. The recovered canoes are now in the custody of the troops, who are actively pursuing leads to track down those involved in the attempted transport.

The military described this operation as a notable success in their ongoing efforts to disrupt terrorist logistics and hinder the operational capabilities of criminal elements. The statement emphasized the effectiveness of intelligence-driven operations in thwarting the plans of terrorists and underscored the commitment of Operation FANSAN YAMMA to identify and dismantle terrorist networks.

The Joint Task Force reiterated the importance of public cooperation in these efforts, urging citizens to continue providing timely and credible information to security forces. Such collaboration is deemed essential for disrupting terrorist activities and ensuring the safety of lives and property within the Joint Operations Area.