Troops of Sector 2, Operation Fansan Yamma (OPFY), have intercepted three disassembled canoes allegedly procured by a notorious terrorist leader, Shehu Bagewaye, to facilitate the movement of his fighters across riverine areas of Zamfara State.

The canoes, which were being transported to their intended destination, were intercepted on Sunday, August 23, 2026, during a covert operation by the troops.

Media Information Officer of Operation Fansan Yamma, Lt. Col. Aliyu Danja, said the operation followed credible intelligence indicating that Bagewaye had arranged for the procurement of the canoes from Yauri Local Government Area of Kebbi State for onward movement into Zamfara.

According to him, intelligence gathered by the troops showed that the terrorists intended to use the canoes to overcome river obstacles restricting their movement and improve their mobility for attacks and other criminal activities against vulnerable communities.

“Acting swiftly on the intelligence, troops of Sector 2 on 23 August 2026 conducted a covert operation along identified areas of interest and successfully intercepted three disassembled canoes in transit towards their intended destination,” Danja said.

He added that those conveying the canoes abandoned them and fled after sighting the troops.

Danja said the recovered canoes were now in the custody of the military, while efforts were ongoing to identify and apprehend those connected with the attempted movement.

He described the interception as another indication of the growing effectiveness of intelligence-driven operations by Operation Fansan Yamma in disrupting terrorist logistics and denying criminal elements the resources needed to expand their mobility and operational reach.

The Joint Task Force, he said, would continue to target terrorist networks, logistics and freedom of movement before they could pose further threats to communities.

The latest operation highlights the military’s increasing focus on disrupting the logistical networks that enable terrorist groups to move fighters and equipment across difficult terrain.